LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery that has gained widespread popularity. Millions of people have undergone this surgery to correct their vision, and the procedure continues to evolve with technological advancements. If you’re considering Laser eye surgery, you must understand what it is and its latest advancements.
What is LASIK Surgery?
This eye surgery is a procedure that reshapes the cornea of the eye to improve vision. The cornea is the clear front part of the eye, responsible for focusing light onto the retina. During the surgery, a laser is used to remove a small amount of corneal tissue to change the shape of the cornea, allowing it to focus light precisely on the retina. This results in improved vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Advancement #1: Wavefront Technology
Wavefront technology is a significant advancement in LASIK surgery. This technology uses a device that scans the eye and creates a 3D map of the cornea’s imperfections. The map is then used to guide the laser during surgery to make precise and personalised corrections to the cornea. This allows for a higher level of accuracy and better visual outcomes. Wavefront technology has also made it possible for people with higher-order aberrations, such as halos and glare, to be good candidates for this surgery.
Advancement #2: Femtosecond Laser
The femtosecond laser is another breakthrough in LASIK surgery. This laser creates a thin flap in the cornea, which is lifted to access the underlying tissue for reshaping. This is an improvement over the traditional method of using a blade to create the flap, which carries a higher risk of complications. The femtosecond laser allows for more precise and controlled flap creation, resulting in better outcomes and faster recovery time.
Advancement #3: SMILE Surgery
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) uses a femtosecond laser to create a small, thin lenticule removed from the cornea through a small incision. This procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery, as it does not require the creation of a corneal flap. SMILE surgery has a shorter recovery time and is suitable for people with thinner corneas or not candidates for traditional surgery.
Advancement #4: Presby LASIK
Presby LASIK is a specialised form of laser surgery designed to correct presbyopia, an age-related condition that affects near vision. It uses a multifocal laser to reshape the cornea, providing patients with a range of focal points for improved near and distance vision. This type of surgery is ideal for people over 40 who want to reduce their dependence on reading glasses.
Advancement #5: Topography-Guided LASIK
Topography-guided LASIK is a form of surgery that uses a 3D map of the cornea to guide the laser during surgery. It is ideal for people with irregular corneas, such as those with keratoconus, who may not be candidates for traditional surgery. It provides highly personalised treatment and better visual outcomes.
Procedures such as Laser eye surgery have made significant progress since its inception. With the latest technological advancements, it has become a safe, effective, and popular option for people looking to correct their vision. The advancements in this surgery have also made it possible for people with more complicated vision issues to undergo the procedure. If you’re considering this surgery, you must consult an experienced and qualified ophthalmologist who can help determine which type of laser surgery is right for you based on your unique needs and preferences.
