Types of Laser Eye Surgery

Types of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgeries have revolutionised vision correction. These procedures can be quick, relatively painless and result in clearer vision that lasts a lifetime. In this article we take a look at why you should consider laser eye surgery. We also explore the different types of surgery available, the risks and key considerations. 

Why Would I Need Eye Surgery?

Normally the cornea refracts light rays to the retina. This turns light into signals that the brain interprets as images. Refractive errors can cause the retina to bend incorrectly, which in turn causes blurred vision. This results in a need for glasses or contact lenses. 

Why Consider Laser Eye Surgery?

There are many reasons why people would opt to have a vision correction procedure. Some of these include:

• Independence from glasses and contacts. Those who wear glasses can avoid cleaning, breaking or even losing their glasses. Contact lens users can bypass issues of irritation and infection 
• Active lifestyles. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can perform without eyewear restrictions. Activities like swimming and running become more comfortable
• Financial savings. Over time eye surgery becomes cost effective compared to updating prescription eyewear. It also reduces the expense of contacts, solutions and frames
• Quick and long lasting. Most laser surgeries take under 30 minutes with minimal recovery time. Unlike temporary solutions, they offer long-lasting vision correction

What is an Excimer Laser?

• An excimer laser is an Ophthalmology tool used to correct visual refractive errors by reshaping the cornea. 
• It uses a cool ultraviolet light beam that removes microscopic amounts of tissue. 
• It is the foundational technology for several procedures. 
• It is suitable for treating myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

• LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is the most widely recognised form of laser eye surgery 
• LASIK surgery combines the precision of the excimer laser with corneal flap techniques 
• Using this technique, a flap on the cornea is created. The underlying tissue is then adjusted
• This is ideal for patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
• Recovery from LASIK eye surgery is typically quick with minimal discomfort

What is Femto LASIK Eye Surgery?

• Femto LASIK is an advanced version of LASIK eye surgery 
• The procedure uses two different lasers - a femtosecond laser and an excimer laser 
• The femtosecond laser creates the corneal flap. The excimer laser than reshapes the cornea 
• This procedure typically results in faster healing and reduced risk of complications

Is Excimer Laser Treatment Permanent?

• LASIK eye surgery can last a lifetime as it reshapes the cornea
• The need for follow-up surgery - called LASIK enhancement - varies from person to person 
• Factors such as sun exposure and ageing can impact the need for LASIK enhancement
• Approximately 1-2% of patients will need LASIK enhancement surgery in the first year after surgery 

To book an appointment and discuss the right procedure for you, visit the ACIBADEM Beauty Center Eye Laser page.