Laser vision correction

The quality of visual perception depends to a great extent on the magnitude of the curvature of the cornea. The change in the shape of this natural lens can correct the most common refractive disorders: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism. And laser correction is by far the most advanced technology to correct these defects.

Definition of the methodology

For the first time, the correction of vision using keratotomy was undertaken by Dr. Sato (Japan) in 1939.The essence of the method was the application of incisions on the cornea, as a result of which the curvature changed during healing. However, postoperative complications (opacities, inflammations, ) did not allow the method to develop.

Dr. Sato for the first time underwent a surgery for vision correction

And only after many years of preliminary animal studies in 1985. in Berlin, the first surgery to correct vision using an excimer laser was performed.

The invention of this unique tool has made it possible to achieve high accuracy when performing correction and to implement such subtle corrections that were previously unavailable.

The development of computer technologies led the laser correction technique to a new turn: now all the parameters of the necessary corrections were controlled by the technique, and the result did not depend on subjective factors.

As a result of a 15-minute operation performed out-patiently and painlessly, the patient can improve vision (depending on the indications) up to 100%.

Kinds

Since the first surgery, laser correction has been improved, and today there are several types of surgical intervention:

• KFK(photorefractive keratectomy) - laser exposure to the surface layers of the cornea. The operation of PRK was the first in laser correction and is almost not used today;

• LASIK(laser keratomileus) - Correction of the shape of the cornea by laser after removal of the surface layer of the cornea by mechanical keratom. At the end of the correction, the superficial flap is returned to its place. The first operation using this technique was carried out in 1989. and remains the most popular to this day;

Carrying out the operation Lasic

• Femto-LASIK(femtolaser tracking) - the difference from the previous method consists in using a femtosecond laser for the formation of a superficial flap, which allows achieving high efficiency in all parameters;

Operation of Femto-LASIK

• Super-LASIK(personalized support for correction) - the operation takes place with the maximum achievable level of accuracy after a preliminary carried out aberrometric analysis (studies with a wave analyzer front);
• LASEK(laser epithelial keratomileus) - is a kind of PRK and is used exclusively for medical reasons. During the operation, the epithelium serves as a corneal flap. It is possible to damage the nerve endings and the appearance of painful sensations after the operation.

Each type of correction has its own characteristics and indications, the conclusion about the application of this or that technique on the basis of a preliminary examination is made by the attending physician.

When appointed

Laser correction can be used for the following types of visual abnormalities:

• Myopia:with a deviation of -6D (PRK), -8D (LASEK), -15D (LASIK, Super-LASIK, FEMTO-LASIK);
• Myopic astigmatism:at a deviation of -3D (PRK), -4D (LASEK), -6D (LASIK, Super-LASIK, Femto-LASIK);
• Hypermetropia:at deviation + 3D (PRK), + 4D (LASEK), + 6D (LASIK, Super-LASIK, FEMTO-LASIK);
• Hypermetropic astigmatism: with a deviation of + 4D (LASEK), + 6D (LASIK, Super-LASIK, FEMTO-LASIK).

Carrying out a laser correction can be recommended by a doctor as an effective recovery technique vision in cases where conservative methods were powerless, or with rapid progression deterioration.

The obligatory stage of preparation for surgery is a complete examination. There are a number of contraindications to the use of laser techniques:

• Progressing myopia;
• Thin cornea;
• Keratoconus(high degree of curvature of the cornea);
• The presence of one functioning eye;
• Pregnancy and lactation periods;
• Presence of a pacemaker;
• Dry eye syndrome;
• Glaucoma;
• Prolonged use of certain hormonal drugs;
• Chronic inflammation of eyelids and eyes;
• Common diseases: neurodermatitis, collagen diseases, diabetes mellitus, etc.

  Dry eye syndrome

Operation to correct deviations is acceptable for approximately 80% of those wishing to perform laser correction.

Procedure

After receiving an admission to a laser operation, the doctor will schedule the day and instruct him about the pre-treatment. Recommended:

• Contact lenses should not be worn for 14 days before surgery;
• Do not drink alcohol (for 48 hours);
• Do not use cosmetic and perfume remedies 24 hours before the surgery.

  Laser correction

For the procedure, wear loose clothing made from natural fibers and do not forget to bring your sunglasses.

Stages

All laser operations for the correction of visual abnormalities are carried out according to the general scheme with minor deviations:

• Formation of the superficial flap of the cornea using a microkeratome or excimer laser.After this, the flap is removed to the side;
• Based on the individual parameters of each patient, a change in the shape of the corneal layer is carried out with the aid of a laser beam;
• The superficial flap of the cornea returns to its place, after which it is engrafted naturally.

After the end of the operation, there is tearing, which lasts about 4-5 hours, but the doctor, with normal health, releases the patient home after an hour. As additional measures, the necessary medicines will be recommended and the prescription needed. The patient is also informed of the telephone number for emergency cases and the date of the next mandatory examination.

Rehabilitation period

Some patients experience a significant improvement in vision after surgery. However, vision can remain vague, so the best option is to provide support after the operation.

In the following days, the most gentle for eye mode is recommended:

• The first night sleep on your back;
• Do not rub eyes, and if you need to touch them, use sterile wipes or wash hands with soap and water;
• Wash only with boiled water for a minimum of 5 days;
• Do not close your eyesbandages or band-aid;
• During the month avoid bathing in open reservoirs or swimming pools, visiting saunas and bathhouses, refusing increased physical exertion, drinking alcohol;
• Follow all doctor's recommendations, use prescription drugs, undergo preventive examinations.

To drive a car with a good state of health is already allowed on the second day, but from using cosmetics, you will have to refuse for 2 weeks. Compliance with all recommendations guarantees no complications and high efficiency of laser correction.

Video

conclusions

Laser correction is available to patients from 18 years of age in the absence of contraindications. In some cases, even operations in childhood are possible. In most cases, surgical intervention is successful, and the result remains stable for many years.

The key to effective treatment is the choice of a specialized clinic with a proven reputation, which able to provide a highly qualified doctor for the operation and the availability of the most up-to-date techniques.