Femto Laser LASIK

What is Femto Laser LASIK?

LASIK is an advanced form of laser vision correction used to treat myopia. In many cases, it can also successfully treat people with hypermetropia and astigmatism.

LASIK is an acronym that stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.” “In situ” translates into “in position” or “in place” and “keratomileusis” is the medical term for the reshaping of the cornea in your eye.

The procedure is performed to remove microscopic imperfections of the cornea (the thin dome at the front of the eye) that cause incorrect refraction of light through the eye. Corneal abnormalities can be uneven (astigmatism), be very flat (causing hypermetropia) or too curved (myopia).

While not everyone can benefit from LASIKsurgery, advances in technology mean it is now suitable for the vast majority – even for those who have been deemed unsuitable in the past.

The LASIK procedure differs from other forms of laser vision correction in many ways. One of them is that two different lasers are used. The first laser is used to create a small flap in the cornea.This provides access for the second laser, which is then used to make the tissue alterations that permanently correct your prescription.

Another huge benefit of LASIK is the short, usually painless, recovery period. Treatment is performed quickly (15-30 minutes), and many patients report rapid improvement in their vision—usually within 24 hours. Youwill be able to return to your normal activity almost straight away. Many people return to work the day after their treatment.

How do I know if I need LASIK eye surgery?

The best results of LASIK eye surgery are when used to treat mild to moderate levels of myopia, mild hyperopia and astigmatism.

Have a prescription within certain limits: Too high refractive errors may not be better treated with LASIK. Because layers of tissue are removed to reshape the cornea, too high prescriptions would justify excessive tissue removal.
You are over 18 years of age: In general, you are required to be over 18 (occasionally 21) to undergo LASIKtreatment. However, there are exceptions. In some cases, and at the discretion of the surgeon with the permission of a patient’s parent or guardian, LASIK may be deemed appropriate for persons under the age of 18.
You must have a stable prescription: Your vision must be stable for at least 12 months (in some cases, 24 months) before carrying out the procedure.
Your eyes are healthy: Because the procedure requires a healthy recovery response, any condition affecting your eyes would be a contraindication for treatment. Any eye infection, trauma or issues such as conjunctivitis or severe dry eye syndrome should be corrected before performing LASIK. Cataracts and glaucoma can also present challenges, although not in all cases.
Your corneas can’t be too thin: Because the procedure removes layers of the cornea, it must be thick enough to do this. Fortunately, recent advances in treatment mean that those who may have been told in the past that they could not undergo LASIK may now be acceptable candidates.
The pupils of your eyes are not very large: The size of your pupils will affect your suitability for LASIK. This is because, in some cases, those with naturally large pupils are at increased risk of side effects such as halos and glare.
You are not pregnant: The procedure is not performed on pregnant or nursing women. This is because hormonal changes in the body can cause temporary changes in the shape of the cornea.
You are generally in good health: Those who suffer from any condition that affects the body’s natural treatment mechanisms or those taking certain prescription medications should discuss this with their ophthalmologist.

What happens during LASIK surgery?

The most advanced FEMTOSECOND LASIK operation begins with a three-dimensional scan of your eye. This provides your surgeon with a visual map of your unique eye anatomy so that he knows exactly how to correct your vision.

Once this is complete the procedure continues as follows:

The surgeon will apply anesthetic eye drops. These will effectively numb the eye so that you do not feel anything during the operation, except perhaps a slight pressure.
A small eyelid support (speculum) is placed to keep your eye open while the surgeon performs the procedure.
A laser (called Femtosecond) is used to create a tiny flap that is lifted to reveal the cornea.
A second laser is used to reshape the tissue of the cornea. This only takes a minute or so to complete.
Then the flap is gently folded into place, where it heals in a natural way.
If you are treating both eyes at the same time, the procedure is repeated in your other eye.

After completing the treatment, you’ll find that your eyes are sensitive to light for the first 24 hours or so—for this reason, you’ll be told to bring dark sunglasses with you to wear after surgery.

The discomfort after LASIK is, if anything, very mild. If necessary, you can take pain relief medication. Your vision may be blurry in the first hours, but this usually returns within 24 hours.

Similar Medical Services