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Laser eye surgery is a popular procedure used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, the surgery allows light to focus correctly on the retina, leading to clearer vision. The procedure is quick, usually taking less than 30 minutes, and offers long-term benefits. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, understanding the process can help you feel more prepared. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens before, during, and after the procedure.

Before the Surgery: Preparation and Evaluation

Before the procedure, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate. This includes:

• Measuring corneal thickness and shape
• Checking for underlying eye conditions
• Mapping the eye’s surface using advanced imaging technology

On the day of the surgery, you’ll be asked to avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or perfumes to reduce the risk of contamination. Once at the clinic, numbing eye drops will be applied to ensure you don’t feel pain, and you may also LASIK receive medication to help you relax.

During the Surgery: Step-by-Step Process

1. Creating the Corneal Flap

For LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), the first step involves creating a thin flap in the cornea. This is done using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is then gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.

In PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), an alternative laser eye surgery, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed rather than creating a flap. This layer naturally regenerates over time.

2. Reshaping the Cornea

With the cornea exposed, an excimer laser is used to reshape it based on your vision correction needs. This step is highly precise and takes less than a minute per eye. The laser adjustments depend on your specific vision problem:

• For nearsightedness (myopia): The cornea is flattened.
• For farsightedness (hyperopia): The cornea is steepened.
• For astigmatism: The cornea is reshaped to create a more uniform curve.

A sophisticated eye-tracking system ensures accuracy, automatically adjusting for any slight eye movements.

3. Repositioning the Flap or Applying a Protective Lens

In LASIK, the corneal flap is carefully repositioned, where it naturally adheres without the need for stitches. In PRK, since no flap is created, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye to aid in healing.

After the Surgery: Recovery and Healing

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience blurry vision, but this usually improves within a few hours. Some common side effects in the first few days include:

• Mild discomfort or irritation
• Sensitivity to light
• Dry eyes

Your doctor will provide medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and strenuous activities during the healing period. Most patients notice significant vision improvement within 24 to 48 hours, although full recovery may take a few weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.

Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective solution for long-term vision correction with minimal downtime. By understanding the procedure, you can feel more confident about the process. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it’s the right choice for you.