What is LASIK Surgery ?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) stands out as a leading-edge surgical method for correcting vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This procedure involves using a highly precise laser to reshape the cornea, ensuring accuracy down to the micron level.
The ideal age for getting lasik eye surgery is over 18 years old with stable vision (no change in prescription) for at least a year and not associated with any other structural abnormalities within the eye. Those who often choose LASIK include individuals who find glasses inconvenient, have trouble with contact lenses, or desire clear vision for activities like sports or specific professions.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
In this procedure, instead of creating a flap in the cornea (as in LASIK), the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is completely removed. This allows the laser to reshape the cornea to correct the refractive error. The epithelium naturally regenerates after a few days. PRK is typically recommended for patients with thin corneas or other corneal issues that may make LASIK unsuitable. It may also be preferred for individuals who engage in contact sports or have jobs that pose a risk of eye injury, as there is no corneal flap that could potentially be dislodged.
LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (flap based )
It is a highly popular vision correction procedure. It involves creating a flap (typically 100–120 microns thick) in the surface layer of the cornea. There are two methods for creating this flap:
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- Microkeratome: This involves using a small, specialised blade to create the flap at a precise depth. This method is known as blade LASIK.
- Femtosecond Laser (wavelength 1053 nm): This specialised laser creates a flap at the desired depth with high precision. It requires a separate machine from the excimer laser used in the procedure. This method is known as Femto-LASIK.
After the flap is created using either method, it is lifted, and the underlying corneal bed is reshaped using an excimer laser (the same laser used in PRK). Finally, the flap is repositioned, and the patient is discharged with appropriate medication.
ReLEx SMILE
ReLEx SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive form of refractive surgery used to correct myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, ReLEx SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin, disc-shaped lenticule within the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a small incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting the refractive error.
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