There can be great confusion when it comes to laser vision correction surgery. With different procedures available and a variety of conditions that it can help, understanding it all can be a bit of a minefield. This article is designed to explain everything you need to know about laser vision correction. Here you will find out what is involved in the surgery, who can benefit from it and what the expected results will be.

What is laser vision correction surgery?

The term laser vision correction surgery is another name for laser eye surgery. It is quite a broad term as it includes various procedures such as LASIK surgery, LASEK surgery and a refractive lens exchange. It is the most common elective surgery performed anywhere in the world today and is undertaken by those wanting to have refractive errors corrected or other eye problems treated.

What is laser vision correction surgery for?

Sometimes the eye is not shaped correctly and this can mean that refractive errors occur. Myopia or shortsightedness is one such refractive error. This occurs when the cornea is too steeply curved and results in the eye blurring when looking at things far away. Another refractive problem is hyperopia or longsightedness. This is the opposite and means the cornea is not steep enough in its curve. Anyone with this condition cannot read newspapers or see things up close very clearly without glasses. Astigmatism is another refractive problem that can be corrected with laser eye surgery. This is a mixture of long and shortsightedness as the cornea is too steep on one side but not steep enough on the other. The result is blurred vision and poor eyesight.

Can laser vision correction be used to treat illnesses too?

It certainly can. There are a number of serious eye conditions that if left untreated can lead to vision problems. Glaucoma, cataracts, age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are just some of the illnesses that affect the eyes and need treatment to save sight. Laser eye surgery can treat all of these effectively and can mean that even in old age, eye sight can stay strong, clear and with good focusing power.

What are the different types of laser vision correction surgery?

LASIK surgery is a common type of surgery carried out on the eyes. This is used to correct the refractive errors outlined above. Patients who undergo this treatment can be rid of their glasses or contact lenses for good. The procedure is quick and simple and there is no lengthy recovery period required.

LASEK surgery is another type of laser vision correction surgery. This is used to correct similar problems to LASIK surgery but is more often used for those with less serious refractive errors or those with thinner corneas who need a more precise procedure.

Refractive Lens Exchange is used to remove the lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial one. This is perfect for dealing with cataracts which are caused when the lens hardens and goes slightly cloudy with age. It can also be used to treat refractive errors too and with a customised lens, patients can even have their cataracts and refractive errors corrected at the same time.

How long does the procedure take?

Laser eye surgery is very quick. Surgery usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is no pain either during or after the procedure. Some patients have blurry sight for a few hours after the operation, but most are back at work just a few days later. Although it isn’t possible to drive a car or operate heavy machinery immediately after surgery, there is certainly no lengthy bed rest needed or serious time off work necessary.

What results can be expected?

Laser vision correction surgery provides instant results. Many patients report being able to see better as soon as surgery is over. Complete results are seen after a couple of months during which time follow up consultations will be necessary so the doctor can check on progress.

Laser vision correction surgery is an effective way to help your eye sight. It can be done quickly and with different treatments for various eye conditions available, anything from disease to common refractive problems can be treated. Both LASIK surgery and LASEK surgery are effective, quick and provide instant results.