Discover If Laser Surgery Is the Perfect Choice for You
To determine if laser surgery is the right choice for you, it’s important to understand the procedure thoroughly. First, numbing eye drops are applied to prevent any pain or discomfort. The surgeon then creates a small flap in the cornea and folds it back to reveal the inner part. A laser is used to reshape the affected area before the flap is put back into place.
After the Surgery
Post-surgery, you’ll need to wear an eye patch for up to 24 hours to protect the treated area. Both eyes can be operated on the same day to save time, but each eye should be treated as a separate procedure to avoid the risk of cross-contamination. Your surgeon will discuss any potential risks with you.
Why Choose Laser Surgery?
Laser surgery permanently changes the shape of your cornea, which is the clear covering over the iris and lens. The kind of glasses you need depends on your vision. If you’re nearsighted (myopic), your cornea is more curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina and making distant objects appear blurry. By reshaping your cornea, the laser can help improve these vision problems.
Laser Surgery Risks
According to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, complications from laser surgery affect less than five percent of patients. Some people may experience dry eyes, which can usually be managed with artificial tears. Occasionally, individuals notice glare while driving at night, especially soon after the surgery. In rare cases, the wall of the eye may become thinner and change its shape, but blindness or significant vision loss is very uncommon. If severe issues arise, additional corneal surgery can help restore vision.
Recovery and Impact
Most patients recover quickly and can return to their normal activities within a few days. However, it’s recommended to avoid driving for at least a week after surgery. For the first three weeks, wearing sunglasses with UV protection is essential when exposed to sunlight. When I had laser eye surgery in Cornwall, following the guidelines from my doctor helped me recover swiftly.
