Refractive surgery has revolutionized the field of ophthalmology, offering countless individuals the opportunity to achieve clearer vision and reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. This category of eye surgery corrects vision problems caused by refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
What is Refractive Surgery?
Refractive surgery encompasses a range of surgical procedures designed to improve vision by altering the shape of the cornea or lens. The primary goal is to correct common vision problems caused by refractive errors:
Types of Refractive Surgery
There are several types of refractive surgeries, each tailored to address specific vision issues. Here are the most common procedures:
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
- LASIK is one of the most popular refractive surgeries. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, lifting it to reshape the underlying corneal tissue with a laser, and then repositioning the flap.
- Benefits: Quick recovery time, minimal discomfort, and a high success rate in achieving 20/25 vision or better.
- People with stable vision prescription, healthy corneas, and no significant eye conditions, over 18 years of age can undergo this procedure.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
- PRK involves removing the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) and using a laser to reshape the cornea. The epithelium naturally regenerates over time.
- Benefits: Suitable for individuals with thinner corneas or certain corneal irregularities. It’s a good option for those who are not candidates for LASIK.
- Ideal Candidates: Those with thin corneas, dry eye issues, or irregular corneas.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
- SMILE is a newer technique, a flapless procedure, and it makes a thin lenticule out of the corneal tissue. This tissue is then removed through a small incision, reshaping the cornea.
- Benefits: Less invasive than LASIK, with no need for a corneal flap and reduced risk of dry eyes.
- Those with myopia or astigmatism seeking a minimally invasive option.
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)
- RLE involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision.
- Benefits: Effective for patients with severe refractive errors or presbyopia who may not be suitable candidates for corneal-based procedures.
SILK ( Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis)
- SILK is a newer technique, it makes a biconvex lenticule in the corneal tissue, and through a keyhole incision is made in the cornea to extract the tissue.
- Benefits: Less invasive than LASIK, flapless procedure.
- Those with myopia or astigmatism seeking a minimally invasive option.
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Benefits of Refractive Surgery
Reduced Dependence on Eyewear
Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Improved Quality of Life
Enhanced vision can lead to increased comfort, convenience, and confidence in daily activities.
Quick Recovery
Most refractive surgeries have short recovery times, allowing patients to return to normal activities relatively quickly.
Long-Term Results
Many patients experience lasting vision improvement, with stable results over the years.
Am I a candidate for Lasik?
Deciding to undergo refractive surgery involves careful consideration and consultation with an eye care professional. During a comprehensive eye examination, vision, eye health, and detailed corneal examination and retinal evaluation is done before deciding suitable surgery to the patient.
certain prerequisite for refractive procedure are-
An eyeglass prescription that has remained unchanged for at least one year.
- Healthy cornea
- No active eye disease
- Over 18 years old
Am I too old to have Lasik?
While there’s no upper age limit for undergoing laser vision correction, it’s crucial first to ensure your eyes are in good health and that visual impairments are not due to cataracts or another eye condition. If you currently use bifocals or reading glasses, you will still require reading glasses following LASIK surgery. Monovision is recognized as a treatment strategy within refractive surgery. In monovision therapy, the dominant eye is adjusted for seeing at a distance, while the non-dominant eye is intentionally left with a bit of nearsightedness. While it doesn’t substitute for reading glasses, it maintains some clarity of close-up vision.
