LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) or laser eye treatment is a popular laser eye surgery technique that is used to correct conditions related to vision such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Lasik laser eye surgery aims to clear the front part of the eye, reshape the cornea, and improve how the eye focuses light onto the retina.
There are several types of LASIK surgery, each with variations and techniques. Here are some common types:
Traditional LASIK: Traditional LASIK eye surgery uses a microkeratome or femtosecond laser to create a thin flap on the cornea. The excimer laser then reshapes the tissue beneath the cornea to correct the refractive error.
Bladeless LASIK (Femtosecond LASIK): This type of LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap instead of a microkeratome blade. Bladeless LASIK is considered a more precise and customizable approach.
Wavefront-Guided LASIK: This procedure uses wavefront technology to create a detailed eye map, allowing for highly personalized laser eye treatment. It addresses higher-order aberrations, and issues like glare and halos, and provides improved visual outcomes.
Topography-Guided LASIK: Similar to wavefront-guided LASIK, topography-guided LASIK uses corneal topography to create a detailed corneal map. It is useful in cases where there are irregularities in the corneal surface.
Presby LASIK or Multifocal LASIK: This type of LASIK is designed to correct presbyopia, a condition where the eye's ability to focus on close objects diminishes with age. Multifocal LASIK creates a multifocal cornea to improve both near and distance vision.
Custom LASIK: Custom LASIK is a broad term that often refers to wave front-guided or topography-guided LASIK. The goal is to tailor the LASIK procedure to the unique characteristics of each individual's eyes.
ReLEX SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): Unlike traditional LASIK, ReLEX SMILE involves creating a small incision to extract a lenticule from the cornea, reshaping the cornea to correct vision. This Lasik eye surgery is minimally invasive and may have a shorter recovery time.
General overview of the LASIK Procedure
Pre-surgery Evaluation: Pre-surgery Evaluation: Before LASIK or laser eye treatment, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to determine the patient's candidacy for the surgery. Factors such as corneal thickness, refractive errors, and overall eye health are assessed.
Corneal Flap Creation: During the LASIK procedure, a specialized laser (either a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser), is used to create a thin flap on the cornea. This flap is gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
Reshaping the Cornea: The excimer laser is then used to precisely remove a specific amount of corneal tissue, reshaping it to correct the refractive error. In the case of myopia, the laser flattens the cornea, while for hyperopia, it steepens it. Astigmatism can be corrected by smoothing an irregular cornea into a more regular shape.
Flap Repositioning: After the cornea is reshaped, the surgeon carefully repositions the corneal flap. The flap adheres naturally without the need for stitches.
Recovery: Most patients experience improved vision shortly after the procedure, although it takes a few days to weeks for optimal results. Patients are usually advised to rest and avoid activities that could irritate the eyes during the initial recovery period.
Advantages of LASIK
The primary benefit of LASIK is the significant improvement in vision. Many people experience reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
LASIK often provides quick results, with many patients experiencing improved vision within a day or two after the procedure.
LASIK has a high success rate, and the outcomes are generally predictable. Most individuals achieve their desired level of vision correction.
The results of LASIK are generally permanent. While age-related changes may still affect vision later in life, the effects of the surgery remain.
LASIK is typically a painless procedure. Local anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eyes during the surgery.
Many individuals have significantly reduced or eliminated the need for glasses or contact lenses for everyday activities.
LASIK is known for its quick and relatively painless nature. It is essential to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the laser surgeon to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Speciality
Treatments for LASIK Surgery
What is Q-LASIK Surgery?
Q-LASIK is a type of LASIK eye surgery that uses advanced femtosecond laser technology to create the corneal flap with high precision. This is part of an All-Laser LASIK approach, which avoids mechanical instruments for flap creation. The Q-LASIK surgery also uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea, aiming for enhanced safety, accuracy, and visual outcomes. It can be combined with other technologies like wavefront or topography-guided systems for customized treatment.
Condition Treated by LASIK Laser
Nearsightedness (Myopia), is a common vision condition in which close objects are seen clearly, but objects at a distance appear blurry. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea (the front part of the eye) has too much curvature. As a result, light entering the eye is focused in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
Myopia usually develops during childhood and progresses until the eyes stop growing, typically in early adulthood. The exact cause of myopia is not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors can play a role.
Farsightedness (Hyperopia) is a common vision condition where distant objects can be seen more clearly than close ones. This occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light entering the eye to focus behind the retina rather than directly on it.
Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, leading to distorted or blurred vision. In a normal eye, the cornea and lens are smooth and evenly curved in all directions, allowing light to focus evenly on the retina at the back of the eye. In astigmatism, the cornea or lens has different curves in different directions, causing light to focus on multiple points on the retina instead of a single point.
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LASIK surgery is generally not painful due to numbing eye drops before the procedure. Patients may experience some discomfort or pressure sensation during the surgery, but it is usually well-tolerated. After the procedure, some individuals may experience mild eye pain, irritation, or dryness, which can typically be managed with prescribed medications and resolved within a few days. LASIK surgery is considered a safe and effective method for correcting vision with minimal discomfort.
The best laser eye treatment in India depends on various factors including individual eye health, refractive error, corneal thickness, and personal preferences. Lasik is a popular and advanced laser vision correction procedure that offers precise results and rapid recovery. LASIK Consultation with well-trained Lasik eye surgery doctors helps you to determine the most suitable treatment option based on your needs.
The cost of Lasik surgery in India can vary depending on several factors, including the clinic or hospital where the procedure is performed, the surgeon's experience and expertise, the technology used, and any additional services or accommodations. On average laser eye surgery in India may range from INR 20,000 to 50,000 per eye.
After Lasik surgery, follow your doctor's post-operative instructions carefully to promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Some common precautions after Lasik eye surgery include avoiding rubbing or touching your eyes, using prescribed eye drops as directed, wearing protective eyewear, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending all follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist.
The recovery time after Lasik is relatively quick. Most patients experience improved vision within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Full visual stabilization typically occurs within a few weeks to a month after Lasik surgery.
Start researching local eye clinics and reading patient reviews to find the best Lasik eye surgery near you, You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family who have undergone the procedure. Ensure the clinic is accredited and that the surgeons are experienced.
To determine the best LASIK surgeon near you, consider their experience, qualifications, and success rates. Look for a surgeon with extensive training in LASIK procedures and a track record of positive patient outcomes. Consultations are a good opportunity to assess their approach and discuss your needs.