Laser vision correction

Laser vision correction has become one of the most popular and effective methods for eliminating various types of vision defects. The absence of glasses frames and contact lenses, the ability to see clearly without aids - all this makes laser vision correction the most attractive choice for many people suffering from nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and other vision problems.

Laser eye surgery uses advanced technology to precisely and safely reshape the cornea. This is necessary to correct the refractive power and thus improve the quality of vision. The surgery is performed using high-precision lasers that alter the eye tissue with minimal risks and complications for the patient.

However, given the peculiarities and costs of such an operation, it will certainly be useful for many people suffering from eye diseases to find out about the benefits and possible risks of the procedure. We also cover how to choose the right specialist and prepare for surgery to achieve the best results.

What is laser vision correction and in what cases is it performed?

Laser vision correction, also called laser refractive surgery, is a modern procedure that uses laser devices to correct vision problems and eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The main goal of laser vision correction is to reshape the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, so that light can be precisely focused on the retina.

This is achieved by using a laser beam to remove microscopic layers of tissue from the cornea, changing its curvature and improving the focus of light. The procedure allows patients to avoid wearing glasses or contact lenses and thus improve the quality of their vision.

Indications for surgery:

1. Myopia (myopia). This is a condition in which a person has difficulty focusing on distant objects due to excessive focusing of light in front of the retina. Laser vision correction can reshape the cornea so that light is focused on the retina, improving distance vision.
2. Farsightedness (hypermetropia). A condition in which a person has difficulty seeing nearby objects clearly, usually due to refraction problems. Surgery allows you to correct the disease in just one procedure.
3. Astigmatism. A vision disorder in which the cornea or lens of the eye is asymmetrical or irregularly shaped. This leads to a distorted focus of light on the retina of the eye, which in turn leads to blurry and distorted images at close and long range.

Laser vision correction is considered a safe and effective procedure for correcting almost all visual defects. However, before deciding to undergo the procedure, it is essential to undergo a detailed eye examination and consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist in order to determine the appropriate method and assess the possible risks and benefits for each individual case.

When is laser vision correction recommended?

Laser vision correction, also called laser refractive surgery, may be recommended in the following main cases:

1. Intolerance to contact optics. If a patient has difficulty wearing contact lenses or they cause various problems, including discomfort, allergic reactions or damage to the cornea, laser vision correction may be recommended as an alternative to vision correction.
2. Occupation or type of activity. Excellent vision is required in many jobs where glasses or contact lenses cannot be worn - airplane pilots, military personnel, athletes or firefighters. Laser correction can be recommended to improve vision and ensure independence from corrective aids.
3. Myopia (from -1 to -15 diopters), hyperopia (from +3 diopters) and astigmatism (up to +5 diopters). Corrective surgery can improve near vision and eliminate the need to wear glasses or contact lenses when working at close range.

Laser correction can also be effective in correcting astigmatism, which can be severe and reach values of up to +5 diopters. Patients with astigmatism may experience blurred vision and distortion. Laser correction can help correct these problems.

Types of vision correction operations performed

Experts point out various procedures and methods aimed at improving the vision of people with certain problems or defects in the visual system. However, when we talk about operations, they can be divided into two broad categories:

1. LASIK (Assisted in situ Karetomileusis). In one of the most common laser vision correction procedures, the surgeon creates a thin, flap-shaped shell on the cornea, then lifts it to reveal the depth of the correction and uses a laser to remove a thin layer of corneal tissue. The flap is then reattached, ensuring rapid healing and minimal pain.
2. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy). An alternative surgical option to restore vision clarity that involves completely removing the superficial layer of the cornea and applying the laser directly to the exposed surface. After the procedure, the cornea heals on its own, but it takes some time until vision is restored.

However, before making a final decision on vision correction surgery, it is necessary to consult an experienced ophthalmologist. This allows you to correctly assess the situation and choose the most appropriate method, taking into account the characteristics of the visual system and the wishes of a particular patient.

Contraindications to laser vision correction

In general, laser vision correction is considered a safe and effective procedure for many people suffering from certain types of refractive diseases. However, it is important to remember that there are also a number of contraindications that may make this procedure unsafe for some patients. The main contraindications to laser vision correction include:

1. Minor age. Laser vision correction is not recommended for children and adolescents because their eyes are still developing.
2. Pregnancy and breastfeeding. During this period, women may experience changes in visual acuity, so it is recommended to postpone the procedure until the end of breastfeeding.
3. Change in refraction. Laser correction is not recommended for patients with active changes in visual acuity due to conditions such as diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma.
4. Physical damage to the cornea. If a patient has scars, ulcers, or other corneal irregularities, laser correction may not be an appropriate or safe procedure.
5. Dry eyes. Patients who often experience a burning sensation in their eyes may experience worsening symptoms after laser vision correction treatment.
6. Diseases of the cornea. Laser vision correction is not recommended for patients with conditions such as keratoconus or corneal dystrophy.
7. Problems with the back of the eye. Patients with certain fundus diseases, including macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, may experience limitations in surgery.
8. Autoimmune diseases. People with autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or Sjögren's syndrome) may be at increased risk of complications after laser surgery.
9. Eye infections or inflammation. In case of active eye infections, inflammatory processes or conjunctivitis, it is recommended to postpone laser correction until complete recovery.
10. Taking certain medications. Some medications that affect the immune system can also interfere with the healing process after laser correction, so their use may be a contraindication.

The list of contraindications may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the doctor's recommendations. Before laser vision correction, a thorough examination and consultation with a specialist is required to examine the patient for any contraindications and decide on the possibility of the procedure.

How laser vision correction works: stages of the operation

Most commonly, eye surgeons perform LASIK, which can help improve the vision of people with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. Here are the main steps of LASIK surgery:

1. Preliminary investigation. Before the operation, the patient must undergo a preliminary eye examination, which includes measuring vision, checking the shape of the cornea, its thickness and the general condition of the eyes.
2. Anesthesia. Before the operation begins, the patient's eyes are anesthetized with a drip anesthesia.
3. Formation of the corneal flap. The surgeon uses a mechanical or laser device to create a small flap in the cornea. The microkeratome method or the femtosecond laser can be used to create the valve.
4. Vision correction. After creating the corneal flap, the doctor uses an excimer laser to remove a thin layer of corneal tissue. This changes its shape to correct vision defects. In myopia, the center of the cornea becomes flattened; in hyperopia, it becomes steeper. In order to correct astigmatism, the shape of the cornea is changed accordingly.
5. Closing the valve. Once the vision correction is complete, the surgeon carefully closes the corneal flap created. It is typically self-fixing without the need for stitches.

After the operation is completed, the patient is advised to rest and avoid eye strain, as vision may be blurry or blurred for several hours, but in most cases everything returns quickly.

Benefits of laser vision correction

Recently, more and more people are choosing to restore their vision using laser correction. Here are the benefits:

1. High efficiency. Laser vision correction is one of the most successful methods of vision correction today, as people can significantly improve their vision using this procedure.
2. Quick recovery. After laser correction, most patients note a very rapid restoration of vision. Within a few days of the procedure, they can return to their daily activities and even drive a car again.
3. Eliminates the inconvenience of contact lenses and glasses. The procedure eliminates the need to wear glasses, which is particularly convenient for people who play sports or lead an active lifestyle.
4. Duration of the result achieved. In most cases, the results of laser vision correction are stable and long-lasting. After the procedure, many patients receive stable vision, and some do not even require additional correction.
5. Personalized approach in reliable clinics. Modern laser vision correction technologies enable interventions with a high degree of individualization. Doctors use modern equipment to create an accurate map of the cornea and analyze other factors tailored to each patient. This allows for maximum precision and results that best suit individual needs.
6. Convenience and comfort. After laser vision correction, patients no longer have to worry about always having glasses or contact lenses with them. This brings significant comfort and convenience to everyday life.
7. Large selection of fixes. Laser vision correction can correct various types of refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. This means that most people with these vision problems are candidates for this procedure.
8. Speed. Laser vision correction itself usually only takes a few minutes per eye. This is a very quick process that allows patients to quickly achieve the desired results and return to their normal activities.
9. Low risk of complications. Modern laser vision correction procedures have a low risk of complications. Thanks to advances in technology and the experience of physicians, complications are unlikely to occur and most patients achieve safe and successful results.

Laser vision correction can significantly improve patients' quality of life. The ability to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses gives greater independence and freedom in daily life, boosts self-confidence and promotes an active lifestyle. Overall, laser vision correction offers many unique benefits, including high efficiency, quick recovery, and no inconvenience caused by contact lenses.

Undoubtedly, laser vision correction has become a real breakthrough in the field of ophthalmology and has helped millions of people around the world get rid of dependence on glasses and contact lenses. However, before opting for such a serious procedure, it is important to familiarize yourself with its features, risks and potential benefits. Only then can you make an informed decision and increase your chances of clear and comfortable vision for many years to come.