Laser eye surgery is a popular procedure used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, the surgery improves how light enters the eye, resulting in clearer vision. The procedure is quick, often completed in under 30 minutes, and offers long-term vision correction. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, understanding the process can help you feel more prepared. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens before, during, and after the procedure.
Before the surgery, your ophthalmologist will conduct a detailed eye exam to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. This includes:
On the day of the procedure, you’ll be advised to avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or perfumes to reduce the risk of contamination. Once at the clinic, numbing eye drops will be applied to prevent discomfort, and you may be given medication to help you relax.
For LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), the first step involves creating a thin flap on the cornea using a microkeratome Cataract surgery blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is then lifted to expose the inner corneal tissue.
In PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), an alternative procedure, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed instead of creating a flap. This layer naturally regenerates over time.
Once the cornea is exposed, an excimer laser is used to reshape it based on your vision correction needs. This step typically takes less than a minute per eye and is guided by a computer to ensure precision.
A specialized eye-tracking system ensures accuracy, adjusting for any slight eye movements during the procedure.
In LASIK, the corneal flap is repositioned after the reshaping process. It naturally adheres without the need for stitches. In PRK, since no flap is created, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye to aid healing.
After the procedure, your vision may be blurry initially but will gradually improve. Some common temporary side effects include:
Your doctor will provide medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and strenuous activities during the recovery period. Most patients notice significant vision improvement within 24 to 48 hours, though full healing may take a few weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress.
Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective way to correct vision with minimal downtime. By understanding each step of the process, you can feel more confident about the procedure. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it’s the right option for you.