Before we get into the procedure, let’s first learn how microkeratomes function. Microkeratomes are devices that use suction to create a vacuum inside the cornea. They’re attached to a blade and are designed to be used only once and thrown away after the surgery. Laser keratomes, on the other hand, use a laser to cut a flap in the cornea.
LASIK
Laser eye surgery involves the use of a laser to repair the eyes. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. The patient is positioned in a reclining chair and a large microscope or computer screen is used to guide the laser. To aid with the procedure, the patient is given a numbing medication. A lid speculum is then placed to hold the eyelids open. The cornea flap is then cut using a mechanical microkeratome.
During the procedure, the patient must stay still and focus. A numbing eye drop is administered for the entire duration of the procedure. Valium may be given to the patient for additional comfort. The procedure is not dangerous and does not require stitches. However, there are some risks. The laser may be turned off if the patient sneezes. In this case, the patient may need several sessions of eye drops.
For approximately four weeks, contact sports should be avoided after the procedure. This is because they can cause eye injuries and damage. Vision may also fluctuate and may take up to three to six weeks to stabilize. Some patients experience halos, glare, and other visual symptoms that need to be monitored. Patients should wait at most two months before undergoing another procedure.
When undergoing a laser procedure, the surgeon will focus intense beams of light onto the target area. Because of the high energy of the laser beams, they are powerful enough to cut through tissue up to an inch deep. These beams are produced by passing light rays through crystals. These crystals also allow the beams to pass through a mirror and reach the target in a fraction of a second.
Laser eye surgery can be performed on the day of the procedure, although you should avoid strenuous activity for the first few days. This may hinder the healing process. You should also refrain from wearing eye makeup for a week or two after the procedure. If you are going to wear makeup, make sure to use new makeup products to reduce the risk of infection.
LASEK
Before undergoing laser refractive surgery, it is important to understand how this treatment works. The procedure involves the closure of blood vessels in the eye using a laser. This coagulation seals and prevents leakage of blood vessels. Throughout the procedure, the patient is given numbing drops to their eyes. A Valium sedative may be administered if necessary. A temporary eye cover is applied to the eye for several hours after the surgery. During recovery, the patient should remain indoors or have someone accompany them. The eye may become sore or may have blurry vision. To manage the pain, the surgeon may recommend over-the-counter medication.
Lasers are used for this type of surgery. They emit high-energy beams of light that are focused on a specific area. The beams can be so powerful that they can cut through tissue up to an inch deep. These beams are produced by passing light rays through crystals. The crystals allow the laser beams through mirrors to reach their target. The laser can perform a variety of surgical procedures, from cutting to coagulation.
Two types of laser eye surgery are possible. One method is called LASIK. A doctor uses a femtosecond light to create a thin cornea flap. This flap is then lifted to reveal the treatment area. After the procedure, the flap heals and the cornea heals naturally.
Both types of laser eye surgery require time to heal. LASIK and PRK can be expensive, with costs ranging from 25000 to 50000 rupees. LASIK can cause blurred vision for a few hours and can take several weeks to fully recover. PRK, on the other hand, involves removal of the entire surface layer of the cornea and reshaping the area underneath. This process can take up a month.
Lasik surgery involves the reshaping of the cornea to make it clearer and easier for the light to focus. The laser uses pulses to cut a flap in the cornea that heals without stitches. During the procedure, patients must focus on a point of light in order to remain still. They may also notice a distinct odor, similar to a burning hair.
Trans-PRK
Trans-PRK laser surgery can correct a wide range of vision problems. It is non-invasive and touch-free. The procedure uses a laser to remove the cornea’s epithelium and stroma in one step. This allows for faster recovery and better vision after the procedure.
The excimer laser removes the epithelium during the procedure and shapes the cornea to the patient’s refractive error. A temporary contact lens is applied to the eye of the patient after the procedure to aid in healing and provide comfort. During this period, the eyelids will be in a slightly watery state, and they may feel sensitive to light. A temporary corneal haze may occur, which can adversely affect the patient’s ability to see.
TransPRK is most effective when combined CXL. This treatment has a high success rate and is a low-risk option. Patients with keratoconus can also benefit from this procedure. It can improve their vision and enable them to drive better at night.
Trans-PRK laser surgery can blur the vision for a few days. However, most patients see clearer vision within a few weeks. Two weeks after treatment, patients can return to wearing contact lenses. However, their contact lens prescription will change and may take up to six months to stabilize. The patient will be given a temporary prescription for spectacles while they wait. After surgery, the temporary prescription for spectacles will need to be adjusted and may change as the patient heals. The eye will also be sore for about 5-7 days. Patients should also take at least a week off from work.
TransPRK laser removes the cornea’s surface layers without the use of a blade, pocket, blade, or suction. This means the surgeon will not have to worry about tearing or scraping the cornea. After surgery, the eye is cleaned using a balanced salt solution. The procedure usually takes around 30 seconds.
TransPRK is an excellent option for patients who have thin corneas because it does not require an incision. It also decreases the risk of corneal dehydration and heals faster than PRK or Epi-LASIK.
PIOL
PIOL laser surgery is similar to cataract surgery but uses a laser. The procedure removes the cataract that is causing blurred vision. After the surgery, you’ll be fitted with artificial lenses that can help you see clearly in the distance and in the middle. Side effects include discomfort in the eye and red spots on the white of the eye. However, these problems are usually minor and can be corrected.
In the UK, doctors have had some success with pIOL laser surgery. This type of lens has been used to implant more than 3,000 people. Its surgeons have developed a special protocol to help determine which patients will be suitable for pIOL implantation.