FAQs About Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery uses a medical-grade laser to reshape the eye and correct vision issues. LASIK, PRK, and SMILE are three different types of laser surgery used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Depending on your vision needs, a doctor with advise you on what procedure to choose. Here are some frequently asked questions about laser eye surgery:
What Is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser surgery alters the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye responsible for directing light onto the retina to produce clear vision. Modifying the corneal curvature enhances light refraction. The three laser surgery techniques, known as LASIK, PRK, and SMILE, each differ in their approach, with ophthalmologists selecting the most appropriate method based on an eye examination that evaluates corneal thickness, prescription stability, and overall ocular health.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Laser Surgery?
The ideal candidates are adults with dry, healthy corneas and a stable glasses prescription. Eye health conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can make someone ineligible. Doctors perform a variety of vision tests and examine eye structures during candidate evaluations to make sure that they will benefit from the procedure. If the results align with eligibility, doctors may further discuss options to surgically improve their vision.
Is Laser Surgery Painful?
The laser surgery procedure is pain-free, thanks to numbing eye drops. Some patients can feel pressure when doctors move the eye stabilization ring into position, but this pressure during this portion of the procedure only lasts a few seconds. Afterward, patients may sense an occasional stinging or gritty sand feeling. The eyes can feel dry or itchy but should improve after a day. Once the procedure is done, the patient may need protective goggles to shield the eyes for a short time.
What Is the Recovery Time?
Each type of laser eye surgery has a different recovery period before patients notice clearer vision. LASIK patients experience improvements within hours of the procedure, while PRK and SMILE patients may take longer to see results. The corneal tissue needs more time to heal for these methods. Most patients resume normal activities, like reading and watching TV, within a few days. Swimming, rubbing the eyes, and wearing contacts remain unadvisable until patients receive clearance at a follow-up exam.
Are the Results Permanent?
The results from laser corrective procedures can depend on a patient’s age and genetics. Some may notice permanent vision improvement after a single treatment, and others experience minor vision fluctuations as they continue to age. Lifelong good vision can still require wearing reading glasses, especially at night. The doctor can advise about the long-term prognosis based on the eye examination.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects?
Temporary issues may include needing stronger glasses prescriptions, dry eye, seeing halos or night glare, or distorted vision with glare. These effects usually diminish as the eye heals within a few months. Infrequent, more serious complications include corneal infection. Following pre- and post-surgery instructions can help reduce potential risks.
Schedule Your Consultation
The first step to long-lasting improved vision involves scheduling a laser eye surgery consultation to discuss your needs. Consultation lets your doctor map your eyes, review your prescription stability, and screen for eye health issues. You can review the results with a specialist to decide if laser vision correction will benefit you. Contact a laser eye surgeon to learn more about the procedure today.
