Laser eye surgery is like other surgical procedures. No surgical procedure without side effects. Even cataract surgery has its side effects. Hence, don’t be deceived by online information about laser eye surgery. However, some people gathered information about how good and effective laser surgery is.
But how about the other side? Are we going to deny the side effects of something because it’s good? Of course, no. However, we are not disputing that laser eye surgery is the best way to solve eye problems like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
But we need to discuss its side effects. And we have good news for you. There’s a way you can avoid the risks that come with laser eye surgery. And that is what this write-up entails. So with reference to https://www.personaleyes.com.au in this write-up, we will discuss the risks of laser eye surgery and how to avoid those risks.
But before then, don’t you think creating a piece of background knowledge is wise? Of course, that will go a long way. Therefore, we will discuss the meaning of laser eye surgery. Then, we will proceed to its risks and how to avoid them. Are you ready for the ride? Let’s ride!
What is laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is the most popular and well-known laser refractive surgery for treating vision issues. LASIK, also recognized as laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is an option for glasses or contact lenses.
A specialized cutting laser is used during laser surgery to perfectly alter the shape of the transparent tissue that forms the dome in front of your eye (the cornea) to enhance vision. As a result, the cornea perfectly bends (refracts) light onto the retina at the spinal of the eye in eyes with good vision.
However, nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism cause the light to be bent improperly, causing hazy vision. Although vision correction with glasses or contact lenses is an option, reshaping the cornea will also produce the required refraction. Click here to get how does eye surgery “Lasik” work?
See Also: How Does Eye Surgery “Lasik” Work? Step-by-Step Instructions
Laser eye surgery Side effects
Dry eye
A dry eye after laser eye surgery is typically a transient symptom. But if patients are not thoroughly assessed before surgery, it could develop into a longer-term issue.
Dry eyes after LASIK and PRK happen because the cornea’s superficial nerve endings need to repair and recover. The cornea is a little numb and lacks the sensitivity to cause tears.
Furthermore, it is known that nerve terminals release chemical messengers called cytokines that function as growth factors to regulate interactions between surface cells. With the six to twelve weeks it takes for nerves to recover, dry eyes are a common symptom.
Now, how can one avoid dry eyes? A Schirmer’s test for tear production and a tear break-up time should be performed by the operating center (TBUT). Be sure your operating surgeon has knowledge and experience with dry eyes.
If you have Meibomian Gland Disease, ask your surgeon. On the eyelids, meibomian glands create essential oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly. After your operation, use preservative-free eye drops frequently. Moreover, every 20 minutes, close your eyes for 20 seconds, glance out the window for 20 seconds, and then return to your job.
Halos and glare
Patients develop halos for a few days to a few weeks following laser eye surgery (both advanced surface laser ablation). This happens due to light scattering caused by fluid within the freshly treated cornea.
The halos vanish when the fluid clears. Yet, some individuals experience severe nighttime symptoms and eventually develop permanent halos after surgery (left-hand image).
Induced aberrations from previous, non-aspheric treatment modalities or lasers that have given limited diameter zones of correction are at blame for this issue. The good news is that this issue doesn’t come up frequently as long as patients are appropriately chosen, and each eye gets the specific treatment it needs.
Now, how can you avoid halos and glare during LASIK eye surgery? First, ensure the light is dim or dark while measuring your pupils. Be sure your surgeon is knowledgeable about high-order aberrations and has experience performing best laser eye surgery.
Ask your surgeon if the treatment profile for your cornea will be ASPHERIC. Aspheric lenses are used in high-quality cameras and eyeglasses to provide clear vision. Make sure your surgeon has aspherization of your cornea in mind. Also, ensure the laser equipment is updated and properly maintained at the treatment facility.
Infections
There is a chance of infection, just like with any surgical procedure. Luckily, there is very little chance of infection following laser eye surgery. LASEK, PRK, blade-LASIK, and IntraLASIK have the highest to lowest risk of infection, with a femtosecond laser being the least risky of all. In outstanding eye clinics, the risk of infection following intraLASIK is one in ten thousand.
Now, how can one avoid infections during laser vision correction? First, visit a renowned facility with a high Care Quality Commission (CQC) ranking. Then, inquire about the environment being used for laser eye surgery. What is the hourly exchange rate, and is the air HEPA filtered? The required minimum is ten; however, most people use fifteen.
Furthermore, please find out which antibiotics are used before and after surgery. Ideally, a fluoroquinolone of the fourth generation, such as Moxifloxacin or Gatifloxacin. These antibiotics are extraordinarily potent and kill a range of microorganisms.
Estasia
The cornea is more elastic than typical in this state, and after laser eye surgery, it may become unstable. As a result, the cornea eventually becomes “ecstatic,” or bulges and thins. This causes a shift in eyesight, necessitating the wearing of glasses at first. As a result, astigmatism worsens and continues to be a concern.
How, then, may this negative effect of laser eye surgery be avoided? A surgeon with expertise in the cornea is the best candidate to decide whether you are at risk. The disorder known as Keratoconus, in which the cornea is elastic and bulges, is treated and understood by specialized corneal surgeons.
On a final note
Laser eye surgery procedures are straightforward. Now that you know the risks involve in carrying out laser treatment, you are on the safer side. Do you know why LASIK surgery is expensive? There are many things involved. But don’t let laser eye surgery cost stop you from doing the needful. Just ensure you’re working with a competent surgeon.
Dear reader, we hope you’ve seen something inspiring here. Do you have something to say regarding this topic? Please don’t hesitate to share your opinion or thoughts with us. Thanks for reading!