The Things You Need to Know About Laser Eye Treatment

People of age have difficulty reading newspapers and books because of small fonts. Even young people can suffer from blurry vision.

There are four primary refractive errors: 

1. Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
2. Nearsightedness (Myopia)
3. Astigmatism; Blurry Vision
4. Presbyopia; Loss of ability to focus.

Many of these problems are due to genetics or maturing of age.

In the 21st century, with the advent of advanced technology, we can treat most optical problems by laser treatment. The issues mentioned above can also be diagnosed by radioactive treatment.

What is Laser Eye Treatment?

Formally known as LASIK, that stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis. Laser treatment has grown famous for treating vision problems; you can even eliminate eyeglasses or contact lenses. Laser eye treatment is a medical procedure that uses the excimer laser, an ultraviolet laser, for eliminating the damaged, thin layer of corneal tissue resulting in giving your cornea a new shape. 

This way, light is focused clearly on the retina. This procedure almost takes 10-15 minutes on each eye. An anesthetic is given to numb the eyes’ surface; the treatment occurs while you are awake. A flap is created of corneal tissue. It is peeled back to allow the excimer laser to reshape the underneath corneal tissue.

 A hinge on the flap avoids it from being completely detached from the cornea. The amount of corneal tissues laser treatment will eliminate depends upon the following factors

• Your glasses or contact lenses digits
• How light travels through your eyes, measured by wave front test
• The shape of your cornea

All these factors are measured beforehand by your surgeon.

Although laser eye treatment is not for everyone, consult your doctor if you ever decide to go for laser, you are not a suitable candidate if you:

• Take many medications.
• Suffer from several health issues like diabetes or lupus.
• Have eye issues like dry eyes.
• Weak or disproportionate cornea.
• Are pregnant.
• Under the age of 18.

Pros of Laser Treatment

The following benefits are listed below

• About 96% of patients get cured and reach their vision goal 
• No or minimum pain involved
• Requires 0 stitching or bandages
• A doctor can adjust your vision as you age.
• glasses or contact lenses are no longer needed

Cons of Laser Treatment

A few risks to keep in mind before you opt for laser treatment

• It is essential to choose an experienced doctor. The chances of messing up are close to none at all.
• Discomfort after few days of laser treatment
• Your insurance doesn’t cover laser treatment since it’s considered a cosmetic surgery
• The treatment may include some other complications or side effects; glare, dry eyes, bruises on eyes, or scratchy eyes.

Preparing for Laser Treatment

Your doctor will guide you about the procedure and instructions to be followed before the treatment starts. The doctor will assess your medical history, followed by a complete eye examination.

The following test may be conducted to measure the thickness of your cornea, eye pressure, refraction, etc. You can always get your queries answered by your doctor. After that, you can request an appointment for your surgery. 

Restrict yourself from wearing any contact lenses before your treatment day (at least three days).  Bring your medication or contact glasses with you on the day of surgery. In case they are needed by a doctor to review your prescription.

 It is recommended to have a light meal on the day of laser, go makeup-free and avoid any dangly or heavy head accessories as it may interfere with your head position. If any discomfort or unforeseen situation occurs that day, call your doctor to schedule an appointment some other day.

The Procedure

To have a better understanding, the doctor numbs your eyes through eye drops. You can also request a mild sedative. Microkeratome (instrument) laser is used for creating a thin flap in your eye. The tissue underneath is then shaped by another laser then the flap will be placed back in place. This procedure takes 20 minutes or so. It is crucial to bring someone with you to drive you back home after surgery.

Post-Treatment Care

Your eyes will get dry; the doctor will provide you with a prescription of eye drops to avoid unwanted eye infections or inflammation. Get your prescribed medicine from a legit place. You can use online platforms like allo-pharmacie giving you the details of your nearest pharmacie based on your location. 

You may also need eye drops to keep your eyes moist. Upon using these eye drops, you may feel a mild burn or irritation, and do not use any other medication without asking your doctor. Don’t indulge in swimming or hot tub for a minimum of two weeks after treatment. Your eyes will heal quickly; however, inform your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual side effects.

 You will have to use a plastic shield to protect your eyes from unwanted dust and germs or rays. Schedule follow-up visits after surgery so your doctor can analyze and make sure you are recovering fine.

• Avoid Unnecessary Rubs

Especially after seven days of surgery

• Rest Your Eyes

Get plenty of rest to give your eyes time to heal. Sleep is the only time our body repairs and gets a few hours off from constant working.

• Avoid Straining

Don’t strain your eyes with activities like intricate crafts, reading, stitching etc.

• Use Sunglasses

Whenever you head out, use them as your eye will be extra sensitive to light after laser treatment. 

• Maintain Hygiene

Stay in a clean environment.  Avoid going to vapored rooms such as labs, darkrooms etc. containing harmful chemicals 

• Follow No-Makeup

Give your eyes and skin break and go without makeup to avoid any pigment entering the eye, especially after treatment

• Follow Your Medication

It is essential that you follow your prescribed medication to recover completely.

In a Nutshell

After surgery, your vision will fluctuate during the first few days. Please stick to the prescribed routine,  and everything will fall into place like it’s supposed to.

Finally, after the recovery period, you’ll be allowed to wear the makeup and go without the sunglasses. During the last check-in with your doctor, ask him any questions you have. Make sure to ask your surgeon to let you know when you have fully recovered.

The process seems easy, but it’s imperative you pay extra care to your eyes after treatment. If you do not stick to the recovering process as instructed by the surgeon, then be prepared for complications and unimproved vision for which you invested many dollars. It can all go to waste if not taken care of.