Laser vision correction

Modern vision correction technologies allow the permanent removal of lenses or glasses through a low-traumatic and highly effective procedure. Laser vision correction (LVC) is considered the most innovative method for correcting pathologies of the structure of the visual apparatus. The procedure has several variations, different lengths of recovery periods, and other important features that are best known in advance.

What is LKZ?

Correction of pathology is carried out using high-precision laser devices. The procedure itself takes only 10-15 minutes; special drops are used to relieve pain. Laser vision correction is performed for medical reasons and requires prior consultation with a specialist - an ophthalmologist. Unfortunately, at the current stage of development, LKZ is not a panacea for absolutely all "eye" ailments; there is a small list of contraindications. A few years after the correction, vision may deteriorate somewhat, usually due to age-related changes in the visual apparatus. At the same time, the decrease in visual acuity occurssignificantly slower than without surgery. Before the correction, you should definitely consult your doctor, who will determine the appropriate type of laser procedure.

Indications and contraindications for laser vision correction

The possibilities of laser surgery make it possible to eliminate pathologies such as myopia, farsightedness (not all types of MCL) and astigmatism. The choice of the appropriate exposure method depends on the characteristics of the patient as well as his financial capabilities.

Typical indications for laser vision correction are the following diseases:

• Farsightedness up to +6 diopters.
• Myopia up to -12 diopters.
• Astigmatism in the range of -4 to +4 diopters.

The operation is recommended when the use of contact lenses is not possible, as well as in patients whose vision is significantly worse in only one eye. A preliminary consultation and a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist will help to exclude possible contraindications in which such an intervention is not recommended.

In what cases is laser vision correction prohibited:

• During pregnancy and breastfeeding due to unstable hormone levels.
• If vision loss has been observed in the last two years.
• For pathologies of the corneal structure, chronic inflammatory or infectious diseases of the ocular system.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Immunodeficiency.
• Cataracts and glaucoma.
• Damage, ruptures and threatened retinal detachment.
• Thin cornea (detected by special tests).

Restrictions also affect age - most clinics prefer patients between the ages of 20 and 40. In individual cases, correction is carried out after 40 years, but only if the pathology is not accompanied by age-related changes in the cornea. Laser vision correction is practically not performed before the age of 21. This is due to the fact that at this age the final formation of the eye apparatus ends, which excludes such an intervention. In any case, you need to consult an experienced ophthalmologist to assess the possible consequences and the level of risk specifically for your body.

Advantages and disadvantages of laser vision correction

Unlike traumatic surgery, laser surgery requires minimal impact, high precision and safety of the procedure. The main advantage is that there is no risk of accidental damage to the eye apparatus due to the so-called "human factor". The whole process is carefully controlled by automation, so accidents and oversights are excluded. Modern laser devices greatly facilitate the doctor's work and providethe patient the opportunity to restore visual acuity quickly and effectively.

The main advantages of laser vision correction:

• Excellent effect after the procedure. Visual acuity is about 100%, which is rarely determined even in people without diseases of the ocular system.
• Low morbidity. The rehabilitation period ranges from several hours to a week, which is very short compared to other surgical procedures.
• No serious restrictions. Preparation for laser vision correction, as well as the rehabilitation period, does not require a significant change in the patient's usual life. After the procedure, you can return to work, study and exercise almost immediately.

The disadvantages include the fairly high cost of laser correction and a low risk of complications. According to various statistics, about 1. 2% of patients are dissatisfied with the results of vision correction, and 0. 1% experienced complications requiring additional medical intervention.

Types of laser vision correction

The first successful operations with laser devices were carried out in the 80s. During this time, several types of laser correction have appeared, the methods of which have significant differences. The essence of all procedures is to correct the shape of the cornea using a laser according to the specified parameters. First, the top layer of the cornea is separated using a special tool. This flap is then returned to its place and the time required to regenerate the damaged tissue is the patient's recovery period. In some cases, the cut flap is removed completely and special lenses are used to protect the eyeball. Below we will discuss the differences between different methods of laser correction, as well as some of the nuances of the procedures.

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)

This is the oldest method of laser vision correction and is still relevant today. Despite some inconvenience to the patient and a longer recovery time than other surgeries, PRK is used for medical reasons. Especially if the patient has a thin cornea and large pupils.

The procedure takes place in several steps:

1. The surface layer of the cornea is removed.
2. A laser is used to vaporize corneal tissue (laser ablation).
3. After the cornea has taken on the desired shape, a protective lens is attached to the top.

The eye surgeon will spend about 10 minutes on each eye. The patient is under local anesthesia (anesthetic drops are instilled). Immediately after the procedure, you may experience mild pain, dryness, and a burning sensation in the eye, which will lessen as the cornea heals.

Special recommendations:

• The eyes' sensitivity to light increases, so you should definitely wear sunglasses with appropriate UV protection during the day.
• Rehabilitation lasts 3 to 5 days. Special drops prescribed by the doctor are used, rest is recommended, working on the computer or spending long periods of time in front of the smartphone or television screen are excluded.
• Mechanical impact on the eyes is excluded. Do not rub, press or otherwise allow the damaged area to act. In the event of an accident-related injury and severe pain, a change in perspective or visual impairment, you should definitely consult a doctor.
• If it is necessary to restore vision in both eyes, the procedure is carried out with an interval of 10-14 days. This helps to better manage postoperative recovery and avoid severe pain.

After excimer laser correction, vision gradually returns, the process lasts a month or more. If you follow the doctor's recommendations and treatment, the risk of complications is extremely low. The procedure is affordable and proven to be effective.

Laser-assisted subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)

A variant of PRK, a laser correction technology, is the popular and less traumatic LASEK method. The main advantage is the possibility of use in patients with dry eye syndrome, thinned cornea and keratoconus. The first successful corrective operations using this method date back to 1999. During this time, there is a lot of statistical data about the success and effectiveness of the procedure.

How is laser correction carried out:

1. The top layer of the cornea is cut off and the flap is pushed to the side. In this case, no scalpel or laser is used, just an alcohol solution that softens the connections between the lower and upper layers of the corneal epithelium.
2. The bottom layer is burned with a laser to obtain the desired shape.
3. The flap is placed in its original location and fixed with a bandage lens.

For better and faster healing, lenses with a high degree of gas permeability are selected. You need to wear them for at least 4 days - the entire recovery period after correction. Visual acuity returns more quickly in about a week. Overall, the procedure is less painful than PRK but does have some side effects.

Common unwanted symptoms after surgery:

• In the first two days there will be discomfort and a feeling of a foreign body in the eye.
• Increased dryness of the eyes, which can last up to six months. To eliminate it, special moisturizing drops are used.
• A "haze" in front of the eyes, worsening of twilight vision, blurred vision - all of these undesirable phenomena can recur within six months after the correction.

The occurrence of any discomfort or pain should be discussed with your doctor. To eliminate undesirable symptoms in a timely manner, regular examinations and consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist are necessary. After the operation, you will need to see your doctor regularly for a year, after which the number of visits will be reduced.

Laser-assisted keratomileusis (LASIK)

The LASIK method is the most popular today, is considered less traumatic and offers a high chance of restoring vision. The first operations using this technique were carried out since 1987. The technology has undergone numerous changes and has become one of the most popular.

The procedure of the operation is as follows:

1. A flap is formed from the upper layer of the corneal epithelium according to specified parameters.
2. Corneal defects are corrected and corrected.
3. The flap is returned into place and covers the operated area.

The operation is performed without stitches and the use of a bandage lens is not required. For the patient, this means a shorter recovery time and restoration of vision within a few hours after surgery.

LASIK laser vision correction technique is divided into the following groups:

1. Great Lasik.An almost completely automated procedure that allows correction according to the individual parameters of the patient. First, a thorough examination of the cornea is carried out, the resulting topographic map is loaded into the program, according to which the operation is carried out.
2. Femto-LASIK.To carry out the correction, a special laser device is used - a femtosecond laser. He cuts off an epithelial flap of the upper layer of the cornea according to specified parameters, which significantly facilitates the patient's recovery. It is characterized by high cost and a low risk of complications (about 0. 1%).
3. Femto Super LASIK.The technology combines all the advantages of Super Lasik and Femto-LASIK. Recommended for patients with thin corneas and severe myopia (up to -25 diopters). Such laser correction is characterized by the fastest possible recovery period - the patient notices an improvement in vision within a few hours after the procedure.
4. Presby LASIK.A specially developed technique for laser vision correction after 40 years. Prescribed to patients with progressive presbyopia. The main complaint in this case is the inability to fix the view of small elements at close range. If the disease develops against the background of myopia, the patient is forced to wear two glasses. During the operation, the cornea is shaped into multifocal lenses, which completely corrects this visual defect.
5. Epi-LASIK.It is a rarely used laser correction method that is mostly used in the early or middle stages of nearsightedness or farsightedness. The shape of the cornea in such cases is flatter, which allows the flap to be cut along the natural edge - the section of the corneal epithelium. After the correction, the flap is placed and a protective lens with high gas permeability is attached over it. It may be removed no earlier than three days, with final recovery occurring. It is important that literally the next day you can maintain your usual rhythm of life, including sports training. That is why this method of laser correction is suitable for both active people and patients whose field of activity includes physical activity.

Performing laser vision correction using this technique can improve visual acuity by up to 100% and increase the clarity of twilight vision. During the operation, thanks to the use of high-precision laser devices, the degree of eye damage is minimized, which practically eliminates postoperative complications.

Femtosecond laser vision correction ReLEx SMILE

The innovative ReLEx SMILE technology eliminates the need to create or remove a corneal flap. A special laser is used to form a lens in the desired shape directly in the tissue of the cornea. It is called a lenticule and its removal is done through a minimal (2 to 4 mm) incision in the top layer. Rehabilitation after correction lasts several hours, vision completely returns almost immediately after the end of the operation. There is practically no information about possible complications, since this method has been actively used over the past five years, which is not enough to assess the prospects.

The main advantage is the ability to perform laser vision correction when diagnosed with dry eye syndrome. This condition is a contraindication to many ophthalmic surgeries, including laser vision correction. The disadvantage is the relatively high cost and possible difficulties in choosing a clinic and a doctor familiar with the specifics of such operations.

Preparation for surgery

Despite all the technical complexity of laser correction, it goes almost unnoticed and very quickly for the patient. The average time for LKZ is 10 minutes per eye. All the necessary manipulations are carried out using a high-precision laser and the total exposure time of the laser beam is only a few seconds.

Preparing the patient before laser correction includes several important points:

1. Avoid wearing soft contact lenses for about a week before your consultation. Rigid contact lenses worn by the patient for more than a year should be removed three to four weeks before the consultation. With constant use, the shape of the cornea changes slightly, which can lead to errors in vision diagnosis as well as in the calculated trajectory of the laser beam.
2. Mandatory consultation and examination by an ophthalmologist before surgery. It is advisable to immediately select a clinic and undergo the necessary examinations there. During the appointment, a thorough examination of the back of the eye and a check of visual acuity will be carried out. If the patient has no contraindications, the doctor will help you choose the appropriate type of laser correction and conduct a typographic examination of the cornea for the upcoming procedure.
3. It is important to undergo a general health examination. According to the treatment protocol, the list of necessary procedures includes fluorography, control of blood sugar levels, a general blood test, as well as tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C.
4. Women must remove eyelash extensions the day before the procedure and avoid using decorative cosmetics, creams or lotions.

It is advisable to immediately think about the possibility of a short vacation in order to better recover after laser correction. Typically, the procedure is performed on a "hospital day" with the patient going home within a few hours of the operation. It is important to solve everyday problems: who will pick you up from the hospital and help solve everyday problems? For the patientIt is important to focus on rest and put your usual worries aside for a while.

How does laser correction work and how long does it take?

Most of the fears and concerns associated with the operation turn out to be completely unconfirmed. The total time the patient spends in the operating room is no more than 10 minutes. Vision correction is carried out in the supine position, the eyelids are fixed with a special device that makes it difficult to see freely. In fact, the patient feels nothing except the effects of the anesthetic drops and slight discomfort when the ring is attached to the eye. This device allows you to quickly and accurately remove a flap of the required size. The effect of the laser beam can be felt as a slight warming, but in principle all sensations are relieved by the effect of an anesthetic and possible discomfort is more of a psycho-emotional nature.

Postoperative period: recovery, restrictions, recommendations after correction

Immediately after laser correction, dizziness, pain in the eyes, nausea and other complaints often occur. Basically, these symptoms are associated with psychological stress, which inevitably occurs in such situations. Although painful sensations may occur after the effects of the anesthetic drops wear off, the doctor will usually prescribe regular pain relief for the first day. Antibiotic drops and corneal moisturizing medications are used.

Important nuances of proper rehabilitation after laser correction:

• Do not touch your eyes, touch them with your hands, rub them, or otherwise affect them. This may result in flap displacement and require repeat surgery.
• In some cases, the patient wears special protective lenses for three to four days after the operation. They prevent eye injuries and the penetration of foreign bodies or contaminants.
• In the week following surgery, it is advisable to limit time in front of the television, computer screen or smartphone.
• It is also advisable to avoid additional eye strain, wear sunglasses when leaving the house and avoid frost or strong winds.
• Reduce physical activity, avoid heavy lifting, and remain hunched over for long periods of time.

During the rehabilitation period after laser vision correction, the use of eye drops containing pantothenic and hyaluronic acid is recommended. This is a preventative eye remedy designed to hydrate and speed up the eye's healing process. Thanks to pantothenic acid, drops help: stimulate the regeneration of the mucous membranes; Accelerating cell division and increasing the strength of collagen fibers; provides a regenerating and anti-inflammatory effect. High-molecular hyaluronic acid stores water, protects the eyes from negative influences and ensures effective hydration and comfort.

During the rehabilitation period after laser correction, a visit to the doctor is mandatory. Regular vision checks will help you recognize the dynamics of recovery and prevent possible complications.

Possible consequences of laser correction

The already low risk of complications can only be minimized with self-control and discipline. It is important to strictly follow all doctor's recommendations, take prescribed medications, and follow hygiene and treatment recommendations. In general, the risk of adverse symptoms with laser vision correction is quite low: from 0. 1 to 1. 2%.

Postoperative complications include:

• Swelling, inflammation and bleeding in the damaged area.
• Decreased twilight vision (usually disappears on its own 6-9 months after surgery).
• Displacement of the flap due to trauma. A common consequence of this is that the patient touches the eye on the first day after laser correction. In some cases, a second surgery is required to put everything back in place.

If you experience any unusual sensations, pain or discomfort you should consult your doctor. As a rule, a specialist gives comprehensive recommendations and warns about possible symptoms in advance of the patient's consultation before the operation.

Frequently asked questions about LKZ

What happens if I accidentally move my eyes during surgery?

Such situations are completely impossible. Laser vision correction uses special devices that reliably fix the patient's eye position at the desired angle.

Will my vision decrease again after giving birth?

A common myth for which there is no statistical evidence. Loss of vision at the time of birth may be associated with hypertension, diseases of the ocular system and other diseases. After laser correction, there is no reason to postpone pregnancy planning and you do not have to worry about vision loss during childbirth.

The effectiveness of laser correction is not that high?

According to various reports, visual acuity returned to 1. 0 in 90. 8% of patients. Another 99. 5% can boast a vision improvement in the range of 0. 5 – 1. 0 and about 1. 2% were dissatisfied with the results of the surgery. Despite the low failure rate and the risk of possible complications (most of which occur when the doctor's recommendations are not followed), LKZ is the most effective and successful way of restoring visual function.

After how long can you color your eyes?

Accidental contact of cosmetics with the eye can trigger an inflammatory process, which should be avoided at all costs. Until the cornea has completely healed, which takes 4-7 days, it is advisable to avoid cosmetics completely and not to undergo eyelash extensions.

Sports banned?

It is better to avoid physical activity the day before surgery. The recovery period depends on the type of procedure. You will need to avoid contact sports for about a month to eliminate the risk of eye injury. In general, there are no special restrictions on sports, the main thing is to wait until the epithelium is restored.

How long does vision remain perfect?

Modern methods are not yet designed to achieve lifelong effects. Typically, about 45% of PRK patients and 65% of LASIK patients report stable vision quality. The gradual decline is largely influenced by the diagnosis: with severe myopathy, visual acuity is preserved only in 25% and 37%, respectively.

Is another operation possible?

With a high degree of myopathy, patients sometimes opt for re-operation to slow the decline in visual acuity. This is possible two years after the first procedure, but the actual indication can only be determined by an ophthalmologist during a personal examination.

The advent of laser vision correction techniques has made it possible for millions of people around the world to stop wearing glasses and contact lenses. This significantly improved the quality of life and made it possible to literally see the world in bright colors. Features and key differences between different LKZ techniques, important questions about preparation, rehabilitation and how much vision is restored after the operation - you can find all the necessary information on the topic in our review.