Eye laser surgery is the procedure of reshaping the cornea — the part of the eye that filters light — with the help of a laser beam. It is performed to correct distance and near refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism so that the patient can see clearly. In myopia the corneal surface is flattened; in hyperopia it is steepened. The outer surface of the cornea is thus restored to its ideal shape, the eye’s focusing is corrected and clear vision is achieved.
Is Eye Laser Surgery Safe?
Eye laser surgery — commonly known in everyday language as “having the eye etched” — is a painless and safe procedure. It is performed in a short time. Because it is applied to the corneal layer, there is no risk of damage to the retina. There is no risk of blindness. It does not prevent any future eye treatment you may require. It offers a permanent solution for those who do not wish to wear glasses or contact lenses.
Who Can Have Eye Laser Surgery?
Unfortunately, eye laser surgery is not a method that can be performed on every patient who says “I would like to have laser eye surgery”. The decision should be made after a detailed eye examination by an experienced ophthalmologist at a competent institution such as the Eye Foundation. To make the decision, the ophthalmologist examines the patient’s corneal thickness and structure through detailed examination and tests. Taking into account factors such as the patient’s age, other medical conditions and prescription, the procedure may be considered for patients over the age of 18 whose ocular anatomy is suitable and who meet the necessary criteria.
For patients who do not have retinal problems such as tears, detachment or degeneration, no progression in the prescription should have been detected in two examinations carried out six months apart. The procedure is not performed on people with diabetes, severe dry eye or rheumatic disorders. We also do not recommend this type of eye surgery for pregnant or breastfeeding women, for those with astigmatism or hyperopia greater than 6 dioptres or with myopia greater than 10 dioptres.
What Should Be Considered After Eye Laser Surgery?
Recovery times vary according to the method used. The time required for the patient to return to normal life may therefore differ.
In general, however, after the post-operative check, the patient may go home. We still do not recommend driving immediately after surgery. The eyes may sting, burn or water for a few hours. Vision may be blurred on the first day. The next day there are no side effects that affect social or working life.
For the first 24 hours the face should not be washed and showering should be avoided; for one week, dusty environments should be avoided, the eye should not be rubbed or scratched, care should be taken not to get soap or shampoo into the eye, and protective glasses should be worn for one month when doing sport. In addition, depending on the method used, sunglasses should be worn during the times when daylight is at its strongest, for the period indicated by the doctor.
The drops and medications prescribed by the doctor should be used without interruption, and regular check-ups should be carried out within the time frames specified by the doctor. You may also need to use an artificial-tear drop recommended by your doctor for between 3 and 6 months after the procedure.
What Is the Cost of Eye Laser Surgery?
Following the detailed eye examination, prices vary depending on the method the ophthalmologist deems suitable for the patient.
Prepared by the Editorial Board of the Eye Foundation Hospitals.
