What main procedures are used in laser eye surgery?

There are two major types of laser eye surgery techniques commonly referred to as LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). Here's a brief explanation of each:

1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):

LASIK is the most widely performed laser eye surgery. It involves the following steps:

- Creating the Corneal Flap: A thin, hinged flap is created on the outer surface of the cornea using a femtosecond laser or a mechanical microkeratome.

- Reshaping the Cornea: Once the flap is created, an excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal tissue beneath the flap, correcting the refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism).

- Repositioning the Flap: The corneal flap is then gently placed back into its original position, where it naturally adheres to the underlying corneal tissue. No stitches are required.

2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):

PRK is an alternative laser eye surgery technique to LASIK. Here's how PRK is typically performed:

- Removal of Corneal Epithelium: The surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed using a brush, spatula, or an excimer laser. This step exposes the underlying corneal tissue.

- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is then used to reshape the corneal tissue, correcting the refractive error.

- Protective Bandage Lens: After the cornea is reshaped, a soft contact lens or bandage lens is placed on the eye to protect it while it heals.

Following either LASIK or PRK, the vision gradually improves over the first few days to weeks as the cornea heals. Both techniques aim to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. The choice between LASIK and PRK depends on factors such as individual corneal thickness, the patient's preference, and the surgeon's assessment of the best approach for achieving the desired outcomes.