Laser Eye Surgery / Refractive Surgery

What is Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser eye surgery is a short operation whereby the cornea (window of the eye) is dissected with a special keratome (cutting instrument) and then modified/remodelled with laser.
The laser ablation is individualized for each patient by the doctor and controlled by computer, according to internationalized statistical standards.

Myopic or short-sighted patients, as well as far-sighted patients, often have a life long dependency on spectacles and/or contact lenses. For various reasons these patients may wish to dispose of their spectacles and contact lenses.

To be eligible for the treatment you should:

Be at least 17 years old, with a refraction having remained stable for at least one year (there is no maximum age, but presbyopia – a condition that many times requires bifocals in patients over 40 years of age – should be considered)
Have no active eye disease
Be in good health

Risks of Lasik:

Lasik is entirely an elective procedure. As with any medical procedure there are risks involved.
Lasik cannot always produce 20/20 or even 20/40 vision. Lasik does not correct presbyopia – a condition that many times requires bifocals in patients over 40 years of age. After Lasik, some patients may require reading glasses for close up work.

Complications:

Infection – extremely rare.
Lasik patients may suffer from night vision effects, similar to htose experienced with contact lenses.
Transient corneal haze. (3-4%). Less in lower ranges of correction. (Virtually non-existent with Lasik).
Significant regression (3-4%). Usually the same group as the corneal haze. Usually responds well to re-treatment.
Long term stability. Refraction changes after 6 months tend to be small and to approach a final value in an asymptomatic fashion.
Some patients complain of a dry eye, light sensitivity, blurry vision at times. This will resolve as the eye heals. Artificial tear supplements are used routinely after Lasik for one to six months.
In some rare cases it may be necessary for a re-treatment, typically 6 weeks to 6 months after the initial procedure.

Preparing for Laser Surgery:

Soft contact lens wear should be stopped at least 3 days prior to surgery.
4-6 weeks prior to consultation, hard contact lens wearers will be required to remove lenses and wear soft contact lenses or glasses for this period.
3 days prior to surgery wearing of all cosmetics should be stopped. Even with the utmost care taken when removing make-up, fine particles are still left and can be seen under magnification.
On the day of the surgery, dress warmly as it is very cold inside the theatre.

Post-operative Care:

On the day of surgery, take your medication as directed. You may bath, but you MAY NOT wash your hair.
See your ophthalmologist the day after surgery as directed and DO NOT remove eye patches prior to the consultation. Continue with drops as directed.
DO NOT wear any make-up for the first week after surgery
DO NOT rub your eyes.
DO NOT play any contact sport for the 2 weeks after surgery, and wear protective glasses for a few weeks after surgery.
Take care when washing your face and hair for one week after surgery to avoid getting soap in your eyes.
Avoid swimming for 4 weeks after surgery.