Laser eye surgery is a widely used procedure to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is a quick and effective treatment that reshapes the cornea to improve how the eye focuses light. If you are considering laser eye surgery, understanding the procedure can help ease any concerns you may have. Here is a detailed walkthrough of what happens during laser eye surgery.

1. Pre-Surgery Preparation

Before the surgery begins, the ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to ensure you are a suitable candidate. This includes measuring the thickness of your cornea, mapping its surface, and checking your eye’s overall health.

On the day of the surgery, you will be advised not to wear makeup, lotions, or perfumes to prevent contamination. Once you arrive at the clinic, the surgeon Laser eye surgery will explain the procedure and answer any last-minute questions. You will then be given numbing eye drops to prevent discomfort during the surgery.

2. The Procedure: Step by Step

a. Creating the Corneal Flap

The first step of laser eye surgery, particularly in LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), involves creating a thin flap in the cornea. This can be done using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is carefully lifted to expose the inner corneal tissue that needs reshaping.

In other types of laser eye surgery, such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), the top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed instead of creating a flap.

b. Reshaping the Cornea with a Laser

Once the corneal flap is lifted or removed, the surgeon uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The laser removes tiny amounts of corneal tissue with extreme precision, correcting the imperfections that cause blurry vision.

• If you are nearsighted, the cornea is flattened.
• If you are farsighted, the cornea is steepened.
• If you have astigmatism, the cornea is smoothed out for better focus.

The laser treatment usually takes less than a minute for each eye. The computer-controlled laser ensures accuracy while tracking your eye movements.

c. Replacing the Corneal Flap

For LASIK procedures, after the cornea is reshaped, the flap is gently repositioned without the need for stitches. It naturally adheres to the eye as it heals. In PRK, since no flap is created, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye to help the epithelium regenerate.

3. Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Immediately after the surgery, your vision may be blurry, but it will gradually improve over the next few days. You might experience mild discomfort, dryness, or sensitivity to light. The surgeon will provide eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation.

Most patients notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours, but full recovery can take a few weeks. You will need to avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and strenuous activities during this period. Follow-up appointments will ensure your eyes are healing properly.

Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve vision with minimal downtime. By understanding the step-by-step process, patients can feel more confident and prepared for their surgery. If you are considering laser eye surgery, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it’s right for you.