PRK was the first laser eye surgery technique developed. During PRK, the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is removed and discarded. The excimer laser is then used to directly reshape the underlying cornea. As the epithelium regenerates, it acts as a natural bandage. PRK is suitable for patients with thin corneas or those who are not eligible for LASIK.
LASEK is a variation of PRK where the epithelium is loosened with an alcohol solution before being lifted. The excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea, and the epithelial flap is repositioned. LASEK combines aspects of LASIK and PRK and may be recommended for patients with thinner corneas or other specific considerations.
RELEX SMILE is a newer laser eye surgery technique that involves creating a small incision in the cornea to remove a thin layer of tissue, called a lenticule. This reshapes the cornea and corrects the refractive error. Unlike LASIK and PRK, no flap is created. SMILE may be suitable for patients with nearsightedness and astigmatism.
Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea in order to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
During laser eye surgery, a specialized laser called an excimer laser is used to precisely remove tissue from the cornea. The cornea’s shape is altered to correct the refractive error, allowing light to properly focus on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.
The most common types of laser eye surgeries are LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy), and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction).
The suitability for laser eye surgery depends on various factors, including your eye health, prescription, corneal thickness, and overall health. Consultation with an eye care professional is necessary to determine your eligibility.
Laser eye surgery is typically painless. Local anesthesia eye drops are used to numb the eyes during the procedure, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient.
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure and individual healing speed. Most patients experience improved vision within a few days to weeks after surgery, but it may take several months to achieve optimal results.
While laser eye surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects. These can include dry eyes, glare or halos around lights, temporary vision fluctuations, and rare complications. Your eye care professional will discuss these risks with you during the consultation.
Laser eye surgery aims to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, but it does not guarantee complete elimination. The degree of correction achieved varies among individuals, and some may still require glasses for certain activities or as they age.
Laser eye surgery provides long-lasting results, but it does not prevent age-related changes or other eye conditions that may develop later in life. Some individuals may experience regression of the initial correction over time, requiring further treatment.
The cost of laser eye surgery varies depending on factors such as geographical location, the specific procedure, and the clinic or surgeon’s reputation. It is best to consult with multiple providers to obtain accurate cost estimates.
For a free quote and free consultation, you can contact us via WhatsApp.
As DixiHealth, we provide health tourism in Istanbul. We work with the most reputable hospitals and specialized doctors in Turkey and closely follow your treatment processes. While taking care of your health procedures, we accompany you to enjoy pleasant moments in the fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul.
