Laser correction: techniques, pros and cons

Laser correction is a relatively new word in ophthalmology. With the help of this technique, many problems with vision can be solved: correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism.Laser correction to date effectively eliminates these problems, while it is a safe procedure.Intervention of the laser allows the patient to forget about glasses and lenses. Let's look at the pluses and minuses of this method of vision correction together.

History, technology, advantages

Up to the middle of the XX-th century all over the world, patients were corrected with eyesight only with the help of glasses. Doctors-ophthalmologists thought about creating a method that will save people from wearing glasses and improve the quality of vision.

Radial keratotomy

In 1939, Japanese physician Sato developed the basics of the operation, the essence of which was the application of incisions on the cornea of ​​the eye.The method was called "radial keratotomy". However, it soon became clear that such an operation causes negative consequences, so the surgeons had to give it up. Only 33 years later Soviet ophthalmologist Svyatoslav Fyodorov made corrections to this surgical method. But even in this case the operation was not absolutely safe, and therefore did not guarantee a 100 percent success.

In 1949, an ophthalmologist from Colombia, Jose Barraquer, came up with a new way to correct vision. Its essence was to use a laser. IBM Corporation, by promoting the development of the method, created an excimer laser.In 1985, surgeons performed the world's first laser vision correction.The operation was successful. From this time, American and European ophthalmologists began to use it in their practice.

Now laser correction is widespread and is carried out in all countries of the world. Moreover, this method of correction is considered the most safe and effective.

Equipment

The principle of laser correction is that under the action of a "cold" beam evaporation of a thin layer of the cornea occurs.This changes its curvature, and it is possible to vary the angle of refraction of light rays.As a result, the image is projected on the retina, and the person clearly sees both distant and close objects.

Using laser correction can correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism. After the operation, glasses, lenses, and medications will no longer be needed. The operation is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient does not feel any pain.

The laser beam is directed to the cornea, and it acts on it for forty seconds or minutes.Immediately after the operation, you can go home. The procedure is only available after reaching the age of eighteen, since the eyeball is still growing in children.

Exposure to the laser

Benefits

In general, the operation lasts no more than 5 minutes.Computer technology allows you to minimize risks. The laser beam is evenly distributed over the cornea of ​​the eye. The operation is practically bloodless and seamless. Accurate computer calculations allow you to remove only damaged or abnormal corneal areas.The result obtained from the operation is saved.

However, there are contraindications for laser correction: it is myopia and hyperopia of high degree, some forms of astigmatism, anomalies of refraction of the eye and a too thin cornea.

Indications for conduction

Laser vision correction is preferable for those who by virtue of their profession can not wear glasses or lenses (military, fire, etc.).Also, laser correction is indispensable for people working in dusty, smoky environments with an aggressive environment, as well as for drivers and machinists.

Stages of laser vision correction

Medical indications for laser surgery:

• myopia (including progressive);
• farsightedness;
• astigmatism;
• disagreement.

It is not recommended laser surgery for patients with such diagnoses as:

• cataract;
• glaucoma;
• keratoconus;
• absence of one eye;
• problems with blood vessels;
• diabetes;
• arthritis;
• age farsightedness;
• retinal detachment;
• weak immunity.

Absolute contraindications to conduction

• progressive changes in refraction;
• inflammation of the eyes and body;
• spasm of the lens;
• pregnancy;
• lactation.

Methods of laser correction

There are several methods for performing laser vision correction:

LASIK

This is a micro-process in the deep layers of the cornea. The essence of the operation is to displace the flap of the cornea, which, after laser correction, should return to its place and firmly anchor there.

LASIK technology

Advantages of the methodology:

• Vision improves immediately after correction.
• Both eyes can be operated on the same day.
• There is no complication such as corneal opacity.
• There are no postoperative limitations.

After LASIK surgery, patients sometimes complain of discomfort, fear of light, lacrimation. But it passes in some days.

LASEK

LASEK

This technique is used to correct refraction and gives a good, stable result. The operation is performed on the surface layers of the cornea. As a result, vision is improved. After the operation, a protective lens is put on the eye, which can be removed after a few days.

The advantages of the LASEK methodology:

• Do not damage the stroma of the deep corneal layers.
• The vision is corrected for hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism.
• The cornea does not change its structure.
• Possible correction of vision with keratoconus, thinning of the cornea, degeneration of the retina.

In the post-operation period, discomfort, pain, reaction to light can be felt. A noticeable improvement in vision occurs the next day, and in a month the vision will be as good as possible.

SUPER LASIK

This method is considered the most modern and progressive. The procedure is that the cornea is "ground" with a laser, but its aberration analysis is preliminarily performed. The operation is performed on the most modern equipment, so that all distortions of vision are eliminated.

SUPER LASIK

The advantages of this method include:

• accuracy of operation;
• the account of all individual features of vision;
• elimination of the consequences of previous laser operations;
• high quality of vision after surgery.

After surgery, patients can experience the same uncomfortable sensations as with previous techniques. Vision improves after a while.

Super Lasik Thin Flap

This method of laser correction is safe and very effective.Its advantage lies in the fact that it is recommended even for patients with a thin cornea.

Other advantages of this operation:

• correction of sight to ninety-five percent;
• safety and absence of injuries;
• absence of complications.

Super Lasik Thin Flap

Femto LASIK WaveLight

Such laser correction is performed without the use of surgical knives. Before the "polishing" of the cornea is formed its thin flap without cuts.

Femto LASIK WaveLight

The operation can be performed even with abnormalities of refraction and thinning of the cornea.

Pros:

• accuracy;
• rapidity;
• stable result.

This procedure reduces the risk of incorrect formation of the corneal flap, the creation of which requires only up to six seconds.

Process of procedure

For example, consider the procedure on the methodology LASIK. Stages of the operation:

1. With the help of special eye drops, local anesthesia is performed.
2. After this, eyelids are fixed to the eyes, which prevent blinking.
3. The patient's sight is directed to the luminous point in the device. This is done for centering.
4. Microkeratome formed a flap of the cornea.
5. After that, it bends, and the laser can reach deep layers.
6. A new surface of the cornea is formed under the action of a laser beam.
7. The flap is returned to its original place and fixed with collagen.
8. A special solution is washed with a cornea.
9. Then the anti-inflammatory drug drips.

Differences

If necessary, the same is done with the other eye.

Benefits

Advantages of the LASIK operation:

• fast and stable result;
• accuracy;
• predictability of the result;
• minimal invasiveness;
• individual approach;
• efficiency.

The possibilities of laser treatment can help patients with various refractive anomalies, whether they are hyperopia, nearsightedness or astigmatism.Practically in each case it is possible to work out the optimal treatment tactics and get excellent results.

According to statistics, patients who underwent LASIK operation more than 10 years ago, still see perfectly and do not need the use of glasses or contact lenses.

Operation LASIK is an opportunity to find an acute sight. For today, no more comfortable and effective alternatives to this operation have been invented.

Are there any downsides?

Laser correction, like any other method, has a number of drawbacks. Let's list the main disadvantages:

• The cost of laser treatment is very high.However, if you calculate the cost of all purchased lenses or glasses, as well as materials to care for them and numerous consultations of ophthalmologists, which the patient will need for decades, the price for LASIK will not seem so high.
• Age restrictions.Laser vision correction up to 18 years is not carried out, because it is difficult to predict changes in the refractive power of transparent eyes.
• Medical contraindications for laser surgery.LASIK is not performed with insufficient thickness of the cornea, as well as at high degrees of nearsightedness and farsightedness, and certain types of astigmatism.

Care Tips

The first hours after laser surgery, the doctor constantly monitors the condition of the patient's eyes and cornea.Vision should be restored on the same day, however, during a certain period it is necessary to visit ophthalmologist to monitor recovery processes (every other day, three, seven and fourteen days after operation).

The doctor usually prescribes eye drops that will protect the eyes from getting into and developing infection. They need to drip up to four times a day, until the doctor abolishes. An ophthalmologist can also prescribe other means of care: ointments or gels.

Several recommendations for the patient in the postoperative period:

• In case of excessive lacrimation, eyes should not be rubbed.You should only get them wet with a clean cloth.
• Do not touch the eyes after the operation within 24 hours.
• If necessary, you can take a sedative or anesthetic drug.
• Sleep is recommended on the back.
• A few days after the correction should avoid getting soap and shampoo in the eyes.
• Within a week after laser correction, you can not swim in ponds, saunas, lift weights, exercise, use cosmetics and varnishes, sunbathe in the sun and in the solarium, drink alcohol beverages.

Video

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conclusions

So, laser correction with astigmatism or other diseases associated with visual acuity and visual acuity - This is a modern safe method of vision correction for patients with astigmatism, nearsightedness and hyperopia. Laser techniques have many advantages, but there are also disadvantages that need to be considered when deciding on an operation. What method do you prefer? Your doctor will tell you this: he will take into account the peculiarities of the structure of the eye, the nuances of the problem. This article will also help you find your way in choosing: you can ask your doctor competent questions and, together with him, make a choice in favor of this or that technique.