Types Of Laser vision correction surgeries

Welcome to Moatassem European Lasik & Eye Center, a world-renowned eye care center offering advanced laser vision correction procedures alongside the benefits of medical tourism! We understand the desire for freedom from glasses and contacts, and we’re here to help you achieve it. This guide explores Types Of Laser vision correction surgeries LASIK, Femto LASIK, Femto SMILE (ReLEx SMILE), and PRK, outlining precautions, what to expect during surgery, and aftercare.

Understanding Your Options

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK is one of the most popular and trusted laser vision correction procedures. It involves the following steps:

1. Creating a Corneal Flap: A thin flap in the cornea is created using either a microkeratome (a blade) or a femtosecond laser.
2. Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue, correcting refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
3. Repositioning the Flap: The corneal flap is then carefully repositioned, acting as a natural bandage.

Advantages:

• Quick recovery time
• Minimal discomfort
• Immediate improvement in vision

Femto SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

Femto SMILE is a minimally invasive technique ideal for patients with thin corneas. The procedure involves:

1. Creating a Lenticule: A femtosecond laser creates a small, disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea.
2. Removing the Lenticule: The lenticule is then removed through a small incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting vision.

Advantages:

• Minimal incision size
• Reduced risk of dry eye syndrome
• No corneal flap creation

Femto LASIK (Femtosecond Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis)

Femto LASIK is an advanced variation of LASIK that uses a femtosecond laser instead of a microkeratome blade. The steps include:

1. Creating the Corneal Flap: A femtosecond laser creates a precise and customized corneal flap.
2. Reshaping the Cornea: The underlying corneal tissue is reshaped with an excimer laser.
3. Repositioning the Flap: The flap is carefully repositioned over the treated area.

Advantages:

• Increased precision and customization
• Potentially better visual outcomes
• Faster recovery times

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is another type of laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. It is especially recommended for patients with thin corneas or those not suitable for LASIK. The procedure involves:

1. Removing the Epithelium: The outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed.
2. Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue underneath.
3. Healing: The epithelium naturally regenerates over a few days.

Advantages:

• No corneal flap creation
• Suitable for patients with thin corneas
• Proven track record of safety and effectiveness

Precautions and Considerations

Before undergoing any laser vision correction procedure, several factors need to be considered:

• Comprehensive Eye Exam: A thorough examination to determine your suitability for surgery.
• Health Conditions: Conditions like dry eye, keratoconus, or autoimmune diseases may affect eligibility.
• Pregnancy and Nursing: Hormonal changes can affect vision stability; it’s usually recommended to wait until after this period.

What to Expect During Surgery

Laser vision correction surgeries are typically quick and painless, performed on an outpatient basis. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Preoperative Preparation: Your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic drops. You’ll be positioned comfortably under the laser system.
2. Laser Application: Depending on the procedure, the surgeon will use a laser to create a flap, lenticule, or directly reshape the cornea.
3. Completion: The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes per eye. Afterward, you may experience mild discomfort or blurred vision.

Aftercare and Recovery

Post-surgery care is crucial for optimal healing and results. Here’s what to expect:

1. Immediate Aftercare: Rest for a short period after the surgery. Avoid rubbing your eyes.
2. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments to monitor healing and progress.
3. Medications: Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and manage inflammation.
4. Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, swimming, and exposure to dust or smoke for a few weeks.
5. Vision Improvements: Vision may be blurry immediately after surgery but will improve over the next few days to weeks.