Laser refractive surgery

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Laser Refractive Surgery

Overview:

  • Over 25 years of experience.
  • Satisfaction rate: 9 out of 10 patients.
  • More than 70% of surgeries performed using femtosecond laser.

What is Laser Refractive Surgery?

Laser refractive surgery uses advanced techniques (e.g., PRK, LASIK, LASEK, EPILASIK) to alter the thickness or curvature of the cornea to correct refractive errors:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness)
  • Astigmatism

One innovative method is ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), which:

  • Utilizes femtosecond laser technology.
  • Corrects corneal optical power through a 2mm microincision.

Laser surgery can also treat presbyopia ("old eyes"), improving close-up focus for individuals aged 40-45 and above.

When is it Performed?

  • Ideal for individuals with refractive defects who wish to reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
  • Factors considered:
    • Patient’s eye condition.
    • Age.
    • Personal preferences and lifestyle.
    • Profession.

Prior Examination:

  • Comprehensive ophthalmological assessment and pre-operative tests, including:
    • Visual acuity.
    • Refraction (degree of myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia).
    • Intraocular pressure.
    • Corneal topography (curvature and thickness).
    • Corneal hysteresis (elasticity and resistance) using an ORA (Ocular Response Analyzer).

Pre-Surgery Guidelines:

  • Patients repeat diagnostic tests on surgery day to confirm no changes since the last examination.
  • Patients should:
    • Be accompanied by someone.
    • Avoid large meals and energy drinks.
    • Receive painkillers and anaesthetic drops before surgery.

During Surgery:

  • Surgery lasts around 5 minutes under topical anaesthesia (drops).
  • Patient cooperation is required to focus on a microscope light.
  • No eye covering is needed post-surgery, and vision is functional immediately after.
  • Resting in a dark room and using prescribed medications is recommended for the rest of the day.

Risks:

  • Common surgical risks apply.
  • Possible side effects (mostly temporary):
    • Dry eye (most common; usually resolves in months with lubricating drops).
    • Halos or flashes.
  • The surgery alters corneal curvature and thickness, affecting future diagnostics and treatments.
  • Benefits may not last a lifetime due to natural eye changes over time.

Associated Pathologies:

  • Myopia.
  • Astigmatism.
  • Hyperopia.
  • Presbyopia ("Old Eyes").