Lasik

Are any tests required prior to LASIK?

Yes, pre-operative corneal test line topography (corneal mapping) and pachymetry (corneal thickness) measurement along with retinal evaluation + dry eye check-up is required to find out whether your eyes are safe to undergo LASIK.

Is there any chance of refractive error coming back again after LASIK?

Usually not. In most cases refractive error is permanently eliminated.

Can both eyes treatment be done on same day?

Yes. LASIK is done on both the eyes on same day and hence the recovery is faster and there is no post-op double vision.

How long does it take to recover?

Vision improves the very next day. As healing takes place complete clarity of vision is gained in few days.

What is the care to be taken after LASIK treatment?

Usually patient can get back to work in after 1-2 days without any problem. There are specific Do’s and Don’ts after undergoing LASIK. They include.

When can I resume my normal activities?

Normal activities can be done after 2-3 days. However swimming and water sports can be resumed after 3months.

Is the treatment permanent?

Yes, you will however need reading glasses as you approach the presbyopic ages

Will I require multiple treatments?

In more than 96% of cases, single treatment is enough. In few cases a second enhancement treatment may be required to achieve optimum vision.

Is LASIK safe?

Yes, LASIK is quite safe and effective.

 LASIK is US FDA approved procedure. Sight threatening complications are rare.  But as with any surgery or medical procedure, there are possible risks and side-effects which your doctor will explain you in detail. Most of these are transient and do not have any permanent effect on vision and can be rectified if required using eye drops, surgical rinsing, enhancement (touch up procedure) at a later date.

Thus LASIK treatment is a boon as well as dream come true for

• Those who want clear crisp vision without any corrective aids like glasses or contact lenses.
• Those interested in taking defence services, commercial pilot, modelling or acting as their career options.
• Those interested in water sports and contact sports and also those keen on becoming professional sportsmen.
• Those who want a pleasing aid-free cosmetic appearance.
• Those having severe contact lens related allergies and infections.

Newer Techniques in LASIK

1. FemtoLASIK or Bladeless LASIK:

In bladeless LASIK, the flap creation on the cornea is done through the laser energy itself and not my microkeratome unlike in blade LASIK.

2. Wavefront Guided or Customized LASIK:

Customized LASIK is the procedure that involves the use of wave front analyser and helps the surgeon to customize the procedure to every individual eye. Customized procedure enables person to see clearer and sharper vision.

3. PRK:

PRK stands for photorefractive keratomy. It is a type of refractive surgery procedure wherein, instead of making a corneal flap as in LASIK, the upper surface of cornea i.e. epithelium removed and laser energy is delivered, followed by contact lens placement for few days. PRK procedure is done in few cases of borderline or thin corneas, which are not eligible for LASIK. Also, for person who are into sporting activities.

4. ReleX SMILE:

Small incision lenticule extraction or SMILE for short is firmly established as the 3^rd generation of laser vision correction beyond PRK and LASIK. It is minimally invasive, flapless procedure that combines the advantages of the two previous generations. Requiring no flap, the outer corneal layer remains largely intact. There are fewer incidences of dry eye and other post-surgical effects. The overall treatment is gentle and visual recovery is fast.

Advantages:

• As there is no flap made, healing of corneal wound is faster and hence early recovery and getting back to work and normal day-to-day activities is faster.
• Less chances of Dryness.
• Flap related complication not seen.