Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a safe and effective procedure designed to correct vision problems and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. By reshaping the cornea using a laser, this surgical technique has revolutionized vision correction. In this article, we will explore the types of laser eye surgery, the benefits it offers, the procedure itself, considerations for choosing a reputable clinic, and important aspects of the pre-operative and post-operative phases.
Laser eye surgery utilizes advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, to correct vision problems. The goal is to improve the eye’s ability to focus light properly onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision without the need for corrective lenses.
There are several types of laser eye surgery, including:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): This is the most commonly performed laser eye surgery. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is then repositioned, acting as a natural bandage.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is removed before the laser reshaping. The epithelium regenerates naturally over time. PRK is suitable for individuals with thin corneas or other factors that may make LASIK less appropriate.