Refractive Surgery

What is Refractive Surgery?

1️⃣ Definition

  • Refractive surgery is a laser-based vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
  • It reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

2️⃣ Types of Refractive Surgery

  • LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) – A corneal flap is created, and a laser reshapes the underlying tissue.
  • PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – The outer corneal layer is removed before reshaping the cornea with a laser.
  • TransPRK (Transepithelial PRK) – A more advanced version of PRK where the laser removes the corneal surface without manual intervention.

3️⃣ Who is a Good Candidate?

  • Individuals 18 years or older with stable vision prescription.
  • No history of serious eye diseases (glaucoma, keratoconus, severe dry eye, etc.).
  • Patients with sufficient corneal thickness for safe laser reshaping.

Doctor’s Procedure:

4️⃣ Pre-Surgical Evaluation

  • Comprehensive eye exam including corneal mapping and pupil size measurement.
  • Tear film analysis to assess dry eye risk.

5️⃣ LASIK Surgery Procedure

  • A corneal flap is created using a femtosecond laser or microkeratome.
  • Excimer laser reshapes the cornea for precise vision correction.
  • The flap is repositioned, allowing for a quick and painless recovery.

6️⃣ PRK & TransPRK Surgery Procedure

  • The outer corneal layer (epithelium) is removed manually in PRK or by laser in TransPRK.
  • The excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct vision.
  • A protective contact lens is placed for healing, as the epithelium regenerates.

7️⃣ Post-Surgery Recovery

  • LASIK: Quick recovery, clear vision within 24–48 hours.
  • PRK & TransPRK: Longer healing time (5–7 days) due to corneal regrowth.
  • Temporary dryness, light sensitivity, and mild discomfort may occur.

8️⃣ Benefits of Refractive Surgery

  • Eliminates or reduces dependence on glasses/contact lenses.
  • Fast and safe procedure with long-term vision improvement.
  • Better night vision and enhanced visual clarity.

9️⃣ Risks & Considerations

  • Temporary side effects like dry eyes, halos, or night glare.
  • PRK/TransPRK may have a longer recovery but avoids flap complications.
  • Regular follow-ups are required for monitoring healing and results.

🔟 Long-Term Vision Outcomes

  • Most patients achieve 20/20 or near-perfect vision.
  • Stable vision after a few weeks to months post-surgery.
  • Enhancement procedures may be needed in rare cases for fine adjustments.