How does laser eye surgery work?

Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, uses precision lasers to reshape the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, to improve vision. The technique corrects vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Here's a simplified explanation of how laser eye surgery works:

1. Pre-operative Assessment: Before the procedure, your eyes undergo a comprehensive exam to assess your vision, corneal thickness, pupil size, and overall eye health. If you're a suitable candidate, a specific type of laser eye surgery will be recommended.

2. Preparing the cornea : On the day of the procedure, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eyes. A small instrument called a lid speculum is used to keep the eyelids open during surgery.

3. Creating the corneal flap : Depending on the surgical technique, either a femtosecond laser or a mechanical blade (in LASIK) is used to create a thin hinged flap in the cornea. This flap is folded back to expose the underlying corneal tissue.

4. Reshaping the cornea : An excimer laser is then used to precisely remove a specific amount of corneal tissue, based on the pre-determined prescription for correcting the vision problem. This reshaping process changes the curvature and focusing power of the cornea.

5. Replacing the corneal flap (in LASIK): In LASIK, the corneal flap is gently folded back into its original position, covering the reshaped corneal surface. The flap acts as a natural bandage and usually heals quickly without any stitches.

6. Post-operative care: After the surgery, you may experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Medicated eye drops are prescribed to aid healing and reduce inflammation. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing progress and visual outcomes.

The specific laser eye surgery techniques may vary, including LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and more, but they all share the goal of reshaping the cornea to correct vision problems. However, it's important to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist to determine which technique is most appropriate for your individual case.