The prominence of laser eye surgery continues to rise over the past few years because of the impressive results which patients experience after going through the procedure.

More importantly, the technology and procedures continue to flourish too as new advancements are being discovered by doctors and researchers.

This type of eye surgery refers to any procedure which aims to correct vision problems. Though it is considered as a form of surgery, patients do not have to endure wounds and stitches which take time to heal. This can actually be done in a matter of minutes to a few hours, depending on the extent of the treatment which needs to be performed. Hence, patients do not have to stay long in the hospital and recovery can be done at the comfort of their own home.

There are different types of laser eye surgery which are available for patients which have vision problems. If you are considering this procedure to be able to improve or even restore perfect vision, which one should you go for?

Though the decision is not solely up to you because the attending physician should conduct extensive tests before determining the right eye surgical procedure, it is best to be familiar with the different types of surgery.

LASIK

LASIK is actually a shortened term for in-situ keratomileusis. The procedure involves reshaping of the underlying corneal tissue. This enables the eyes to have better focus on the light that it receives. Hence, the information which would be sent to the retina would be more refined which results to a much clearer vision.

People who undergo this type of laser eye surgery are those who are diagnosed with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. During the procedure, a flap is made in the outer layer of the cornea which enables the surgeon to have access to the inner layer which needs to be corrected or reshaped.

PRK

This is another popular option for laser eye surgery. The acronym stands for photorefractive keratectomy. This is an option for people who only experiences mild case of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. This is a less invasive procedure but it can only work on the outermost layer of the cornea. The laser beam is used in the reshaping procedure so there is no need for the surgeon to do cuts.

LASEK

LASIK is also known as laser epithelial keratomileusis. This laser eye surgery is a bit more complex than the others because it involves creating a flap in the cornea and then using an alcohol solution in the eyes. This should make the cells become looser so that the inner corneal layer can be treated using laser. The outermost layer of the cornea is also replaced and patients would need to wear contact lenses during the recovery period.

Length of Recovery Period

The different types of laser eye surgery procedures would all help when it comes to restoration of good vision. The only difference is the amount of time which is needed until the patient becomes fully recovered. The fastest recovery period is with LASIK which is only a few days. For the other types of laser eye surgery, it may take several days to a few weeks, depending on the health condition of the patient.

If you are confused about LASER EYE SURGERY make an appointment to see us on (02) 9290 1899.  Dr Jim Kokkinakis has consulted with thousands of patients before and after laser eye surgery.  Not only can he assess whether you are suitable, he also can refer you to ophthalmologists that have vast experience and training thereby minimising your risk.