Laser vision restoration is the correct name. Laser eye surgery: how does it work and how long does it last? Where to have surgery

All materials on the site were prepared by specialists in the field of surgery, anatomy and specialized disciplines.
All recommendations are indicative in nature and are not applicable without consulting a doctor.

The light beam is refracted several times in the eyeball before hitting the sensory cells and further along the nerve pathway into the brain. The main site of this process is the lens. How we perceive an object depends mainly on its properties and abilities. Correcting pathological changes in the lens is quite difficult; the most effective way is to replace it - a complex, high-tech operation.

But there is an alternative method - exposure to the cornea. This is one of the layers of the spherical eyeball. It is here that the primary refraction of light occurs before it hits the lens. Non-surgical vision correction for farsightedness, nearsightedness or astigmatism involves exposing the cornea to a laser and changing its curvature.

Indications for laser vision correction

The operation is performed for three main eye diseases:

Myopia. This disease is also called myopia. It occurs as a result of a change in the shape (stretching) of the eyeball. Focus is formed not on the retina, but in front of it. As a result, the image appears blurry to the person. Correction of myopia is possible by wearing glasses, contact lenses, laser and surgical methods. Eliminating the cause of the disease - the altered shape of the eyeball - is currently impossible.
Farsightedness. The disease occurs due to a decrease in the size of the eyeball, decreased accommodation of the lens (often occurs in old age), and insufficient refractive power of the cornea. As a result, the focus of nearby objects is formed behind the retina, and they appear blurry. Farsightedness is often accompanied by headaches. Correction is carried out by wearing glasses, lenses, and laser operations.
Astigmatism. This term refers to a person's ability to see clearly. It arises from an abnormality in the shape of the eye, lens or cornea. The focus of the image is not formed on the retina. The disease is often accompanied by migraines, eye pain, and rapid fatigue when reading. It can be corrected by wearing special glasses with different longitudinal and transverse curvature of the lenses. But the most effective is laser surgery.

All these diseases are united under the general name “ametropia”. This includes ailments associated with problems with focusing the eye.

Indications for vision correction surgery for the three diseases described are:

The patient's desire to get rid of glasses and contact lenses.
Age from 18 to 45 years.
Refractive indexes for myopia are from -1 to -15 diopters, for farsightedness – up to +3 diopters, for astigmatism – up to +5 diopters.
Intolerance to glasses or contact lenses.
Professional needs of patients, the requirement of special visual acuity and speed of reaction to the image.
Stable vision. If the deterioration gradually progresses (more than 1 per year), then you first need to stop this process, and then talk about laser correction.

Contraindications

The operation is not performed in the following cases:

Preparation for laser correction

The patient must stop wearing glasses or contact lenses at least a week before the correction. It is better to take a vacation during this time. This is necessary for the cornea to take its natural shape. Then the correction will be more adequate and accurate. The doctor may increase the period of refusal from artificial lenses at his discretion.

Each clinic has a list of necessary tests that must be taken before surgery. Usually this is the absence or presence of certain infections, blood tests, and urine tests. Test results have a limited validity period - from 10 days to a month.

For two days you need to stop drinking alcohol and using eye makeup. Before visiting the clinic, it is better to wash your hair and face. It is important to get a good night's sleep, calm down and not be nervous before laser vision correction. If the patient feels too scared or anxious, the doctor may recommend mild sedatives.

Types of operation

There are two main methods of correction - PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and (laser keratomyelosis). The first operation allows you to correct myopia up to 6 diopters, astigmatism up to 2.5-3 diopters. Both types of laser correction are carried out sequentially: first on one eye, then on the other. But this happens within the framework of one operation.

For laser correction of farsightedness and myopia complicated by astigmatism, Lasik is more often used. This is because PRK requires a long (up to 10 days) healing time. Each type of operation has its pros and cons, but still Lasik is a more promising direction, so this method is most often preferred.

Photorefractive keratectomy

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The doctor treats the eyelid and eyelashes with an antiseptic. Sometimes an additional antibiotic is instilled to prevent infection. The eye is fixed using an eyelid speculum and washed with saline solution.

At the first stage, the doctor removes the epithelium. He can do this surgically, mechanically and laser. After this, the process of evaporation of the cornea begins. It is carried out only with a laser.

The method is limited by the required residual thickness of the cornea. To perform its functions, it must be at least 200-300 microns (0.2-0.3 mm). To determine the optimal shape of the cornea and, accordingly, the degree of its evaporation, complex calculations are carried out using special computer programs. The shape of the eyeball, the ability of the lens to accommodate, and visual acuity are taken into account.

In some cases, it is possible to refuse excision of the epithelium. Then the operations are faster and with less risk of complications. In Russia, a domestically produced Profile-500 installation is used for this purpose.

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

Preparations are similar to those for PRK. The cornea is marked with safe ink. A metal ring is placed over the eye, which additionally secures it in one position.

The operation takes place under local anesthesia in three stages. On the first the surgeon creates a flap from the cornea. He detaches the superficial layer, leaving it attached to the underlying tissue, using a microkeratome instrument—specially modeled for eye microsurgery.

laser vision correction: progress of the operation

The doctor removes excess fluid with a sterile swab. At the second stage he folds back the flap and laser vaporizes the cornea. The entire process takes less than one minute. During this time, the flap is also covered with a sterile swab. At the third stage the separated piece is placed in its place, according to the previously applied marks. After rinsing the eye with sterile water, the doctor smoothes the flap. No sutures are required; the cut-off piece is fixed on its own due to negative pressure inside the cornea.

The possibility of performing an operation is determined largely by the anatomical structure of the patient's eye. To implement this, it is necessary that the cornea of the eye is of sufficient size. The flap must have a thickness of at least 150 microns. The deep layers of the cornea remaining after evaporation are at least 250 microns.

Video: how laser vision correction is done

Postoperative period, patient instructions

On the first day after laser correction, the following reactions are normal:

Pain in the operated eye. With Lasik, it is usually insignificant and feels like a foreign object getting under the eyelid.
Discomfort when looking at light.
Tearing.

The patient is prescribed a course of antibiotics and corticosteroids to prevent the development of infectious or non-infectious inflammation. Beta blockers may be prescribed to prevent increased intraocular pressure.

In the first few days after surgery, the patient is recommended to:

Be in a darkened room. Light can cause pain and stinging in the eyes. It unnecessarily irritates the cornea, which prevents its healing.
Avoid touching the eye, especially in the first day. Important! The patient may feel as if a speck has gotten under his eyelid; there is no need to try to remove it! If the discomfort is very severe, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. If there is no cause for concern, he may prescribe desensitizing medications.
Refusal to shower and wash. It is very important that your eyes are not exposed to any chemical agents that may be contained in soap or shampoo. Even water sometimes has a negative effect on the operated eye.
Avoid alcohol until the course of medication is completed. Antibiotics are incompatible with alcohol. It also makes many other drugs work worse.

During the first few weeks it is advisable to:

Stop smoking and visiting polluted places. Smoke has a bad effect on the cornea, causes it to become dry, and impairs its nutrition and blood supply. Because of this, it may heal more slowly.
Do not engage in sports that may impact the eyes - swimming, wrestling, etc. Injuries to the cornea during the recovery period are extremely undesirable and can lead to irreparable consequences.
Avoid eye strain. It is important not to spend a lot of time at the computer, reading a book or watching TV. You should also avoid driving in the evening.
Avoid bright light, wear sunglasses.
Do not use cosmetics for eyelids and eyelashes.
Do not wear contact lenses for 1-2 weeks.

Risks and consequences of the operation

There are early and late postoperative complications. The first ones usually appear within a few days. These include:

Non-healing corneal erosion. Its treatment is quite complex and requires consultation with specialized specialists. Common methods of therapy are the use of collagen coatings of the cornea, contact vision correction (use of soft lenses).
Reduced thickness of the epithelial layer, its progressive destruction. It is accompanied by swelling and the development of erosions.
Keratitis (inflammation of the eye). It can be infectious or non-infectious in nature. Keratitis manifests itself in redness of the eye, pain, and irritation.
Opacities in the evaporation zones of the cornea. They can also occur later in the rehabilitation period. Their cause is excessive evaporation of corneal tissue. The complication, as a rule, responds well to treatment with the use of resorption therapy. In some cases, it is necessary to resort to repeated surgery.

The overall rate of long-term complications with Lasik is 1-5%, with PRK – 2-5%. In the later stages, the following negative consequences of laser correction may become apparent:

Vision restoration

For the final determination of the success or failure of the operation, as well as for the stabilization of its results, a rather long period usually must pass. The recovery period can last up to 3 months. Only after its expiration can a conclusion be made about the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as subsequent corrective measures.

Results vary depending on the type of surgery, underlying disease, and degree of vision impairment. The best results are possible with correction at the initial stages of the disorder.

For myopia

The most predictable operation is Lasik. It allows in 80% of cases to achieve correction with an accuracy of 0.5 diopters. In half the cases, in patients with slight myopia, vision is completely restored (acuity value – 1.0). In 90% of cases it improves to 0.5 or higher.

With severe myopia (more than 10 diopters), repeat surgery may be required in 10% of cases. In this case it is called additional correction. During this procedure, the already cut flap is raised and additional evaporation of part of the cornea is carried out. Such operations are carried out 3 and/or 6 months after the first procedure.

It is quite difficult to provide exact data regarding PRK vision correction. The average visual acuity is 0.8. The accuracy of the operation is not very high. The diagnosis of undercorrection or overcorrection is made in 22% of cases. Visual impairment occurs in 9.7% of patients. In 12% of cases the result does not stabilize. The big advantage of using PRK compared to Lasik is the low risk of keratoconus after surgery.

For farsightedness

In this case, vision restoration, even with the Lasik method, does not follow such an optimistic scenario. Only in 80% of cases it is possible to achieve a visual acuity score of 0.5 or higher. Only in a third of patients the functions of the eye are fully restored. The accuracy of the operation in the treatment of farsightedness also suffers: only 60% of patients have a deviation from the planned refraction value of less than 0.5 diopters.

PRK is used to treat farsightedness only if the Lasik method is contraindicated. The results of such correction are quite unstable, which means that quite serious regression is possible over the years. With a weak degree of farsightedness, it is satisfactory only in 60-80% of cases, and with severe impairments - only in 40% of cases.

For astigmatism

With this disease, both methods manifest themselves almost identically. Research from 2013 was published on the Ophthalmology Portal. According to the results of observations, “no statistically significant difference was found in effectiveness [efficacy index = 0.76 (±0.32) for PRK versus 0.74 (±0.19) for LASIK (P = 0.82)], safety [safety index = 1 .10 (±0.26) for PRK vs. 1.01 (±0.17) for LASIK (P = 0.121)] or predictability [achieved: astigmatism<1 Д в 39% операций, выполненных методом ФРК и 54% - методом ЛАСИК и <2 D в 88% ФРК и 89% ЛАСИК (P = 0,218)”.

However, it is worth noting that the success rate of operations is not too high - 74-76%. And also the improvement in vision when using the Lasik method is slightly higher than with PRK.

The cost of laser vision correction, surgery under compulsory medical insurance policy

The question of the possibility of free vision correction is quite controversial. Insurance companies tend to classify such operations as cosmetic, which, according to the law, are paid for by patients themselves.

There is information about the possibility of receiving such assistance for military personnel and their relatives in military hospitals. So, on the website of the Military Medical Academy named after. CM. Kirov city of St. Petersburg indicated: “The Academy provides inpatient and outpatient treatment to military personnel and their families, as well as citizens who have compulsory medical insurance or voluntary health insurance policies from companies that have entered into an agreement with the Military Medical Academy. Without a policy, the VMA provides services to the population on a paid basis.” The list of medical procedures provided includes “ laser correction of visual acuity“. Probably, in general practice, such operations are carried out free of charge if there is an agreement with a specific hospital in the region of military service/residence and the technical capabilities of the medical institution.

The vast majority of laser vision correction operations are carried out on a paid basis. However, working citizens can return a tax deduction of 13% by writing an application. Also, many companies provide discounts to their regular customers and some social groups - pensioners, disabled people, students.

The cost depends on the type of operation, clinic and region. On average, PRK in Moscow costs 15,000 rubles. Lasik, depending on the modification of the method, ranges from 20,000 to 35,000 rubles. Prices are for vision correction in one eye.

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

The most popular and well-known medical centers in the two largest cities of Russia are:

To do or not to do vision correction is a question that the patient must decide for himself first. This operation is not considered necessary or vital. However, the majority of patients who have undergone laser correction report a huge improvement in their quality of life and their well-being.

Video: LASIK laser vision correction – patient review

Video: laser vision correction - progress of the operation

Vision defects can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, surgery and laser correction. The last method of eliminating visual pathologies is the most effective. It provides excellent vision and is rarely accompanied by complications. Let's find out what the essence of this treatment method is, how the operation takes place and how long it lasts.

When is laser vision correction prescribed?

Laser vision correction today is a very popular technique for correcting refractive errors. Unlike surgery, laser treatment is absolutely painless and safe. With its help, it is possible to achieve almost one hundred percent vision. Laser correction allows many people to forget about glasses and contact lenses for many years or forever. This procedure is prescribed for the following visual pathologies:

Myopia or myopia (from −1 diopter). With this disease, light rays are focused in front of the retina, as a result of which a person has difficulty seeing what is at a distance from him. The operation is performed when the reading is no higher than −1 diopter. Usually this degree of myopia is not corrected even with glasses and contact lenses.
Farsightedness or hypermetropia (up to +6 diopters) is a refractive error caused by a decrease in the size of the eyeball. Light rays appear behind the mesh shell. The patient sees well into the distance, but objects close to the eyes appear blurry.
Presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) is a pathology that occurs in people after 40 years of age. Almost every person who has reached the specified age encounters it. This happens due to the natural aging of the body and all its organs and structures, including the lens of the eye. Over the years, it becomes less elastic and it is difficult for it to change its shape when looking from distant objects to close ones and vice versa. The first symptom of presbyopia is difficulty viewing small objects (for example, the type in a book) at close range. If presbyopia develops against the background of myopia, a person will need several pairs of glasses - for distance and for near.
Astigmatism (up to 4 diopters) is a visual pathology that results from curvature, change in the shape of the eyeball, cornea or lens. Light rays fall on several points of the retina and form a blurry image. A person has to constantly squint to see anything. Often, astigmatism is accompanied by myopia or hypermetropia.

When does a person need to sign up for laser vision correction?

All of the above diseases can be corrected with glasses and contact lenses. However, if a person wants to get rid of the need to wear them, select them and systematically adjust their optical power, he agrees to laser surgery. In some cases, patients have to do this. This is due to a profession that does not allow you to wear contact lenses and glasses: we are talking about firefighters, military personnel. Laser vision correction as the only opportunity to play sports is becoming necessary for many athletes.

Wearing glasses during sports activities is dangerous and inconvenient, as they can break, fall off the face, fog up, and contact optics are not compatible, for example, with water sports. Laser correction is for such people a chance to work fully and do what they love.

Contraindications to laser vision correction

Laser vision correction is a very safe and absolutely painless procedure. However, it is not available to everyone. There are a number of limitations that are revealed during a thorough examination of the patient. Contraindications can be relative or absolute. The first include:

Absolute contraindications

The above pathologies and conditions are temporary. Absolute forever exclude the possibility of prescribing the procedure:

Today, these contraindications are absolute, but the development of technology is expanding the possibilities for laser vision correction. Thus, some relative restrictions, for example, diabetes, were previously absolute.

How is laser vision restoration surgery performed?

There are several laser techniques that differ from each other in a number of parameters. In general, the essence of any technique comes down to the following:

In some cases, the surgeon installs a bandage lens on the eye - a hydrogel bandage that promotes rapid healing of the cornea and prevents bacteria from entering the eye.
The patient does not need to prepare thoroughly and for a long time for the operation. Two weeks before vision correction, he stops wearing optics. This is necessary for the cornea to take its natural shape. Two days before the procedure you should not drink alcohol. It negatively affects the blood vessels of the eye.

On the day of the procedure, the patient needs to wash his hair and face. Make-up, cream and make-up are not allowed. Fragments of cosmetics can get into the eye and cause inflammation. The doctor will give all the necessary instructions that must be strictly followed. Any operation is associated with risk. If you do not follow your ophthalmologist's instructions, the risk of complications increases. In addition, the doctor may cancel the procedure.

Are there complications after laser correction?

The likelihood of complications is very low. After PRK they occur in 2-5% of cases, and after LASIK - in 1-5% of cases. In the first days and weeks after the procedure, side effects may appear that do not affect visual acuity:

blurred vision at night. Most often, the complication occurs in patients with pupils that are wider than the average norm;
infection. May develop due to the patient’s failure to comply with hygiene in the postoperative period;
painful sensations. Lasts until the cornea heals;
lacrimation in the first three days after correction;
dry eye syndrome associated with drying out of the cornea after laser evaporation. It is treated with eye drops;
photophobia in the first 48 hours;
Drooping of the upper eyelid (ptosis) is a very rare complication that goes away without treatment after a few days.

There are a number of complications that lead to decreased vision:

poor-quality cut of the flap;
ingrowth of epithelium under the flap;
overcorrection or undercorrection (the doctor removed more or less tissue than planned);
keratitis is an inflammatory disease of the cornea that leads to vision impairment.

Almost all of these complications, except keratitis, require repeated vision correction. They appear within a few months. There are even more severe side effects that occur extremely rarely and lead to a severe decrease in visual function:

displacement, loss, damage to the corneal flap in the first month after the procedure as a result of mechanical trauma;
diffuse lamellar keratitis. The reasons for its occurrence after laser correction are not exactly known, but treatment of the disease should begin as early as possible, as it leads to clouding of the cornea and serious vision loss.

Complications after laser vision correction, as already noted, are rare. The entire procedure and its consequences are completely controlled by the doctor. The patient only needs to follow his instructions exactly.

How long does laser vision correction surgery take?

15 minutes before the procedure, a local anesthetic is instilled into the patient’s eyes. During these 15 minutes, the doctor tells the patient about how the operation will proceed and what needs to be done. The laser action takes about 20-60 seconds depending on the damage. In total, the procedure lasts from 10 to 30 minutes on one eye.

The duration of the operation depends, among other things, on the technique. LASIK is done in 5-7 minutes. Usually, laser vision correction is performed on both organs of vision on the same day. PRK takes about 10-15 minutes on one eye.

After the operation, the person operated on remains in the clinic for 1-3 hours and is sent home. The doctor instructs him on what can and cannot be done after the correction, and sets the time for the next examination. The duration of the operation may depend not only on the degree of pathology that needs to be corrected, but also on the methods used by the doctor.

Laser vision correction techniques

There are two main types of laser vision correction surgery: PRK and LASIK. The second technique is constantly being improved, newer methods are appearing that are even safer and faster. LASIK modifications:

In terms of the time it takes the doctor to perform the operation, the techniques practically do not differ from each other. The doctor prescribes a particular procedure depending on the indications and financial capabilities of the patient.

Laser correction of vision pathologies: advantages

Now you know how the correction works, what the indications are for it, how long the operation lasts and whether there are complications. Despite the presence of the last point, this method of correcting refractive errors has a number of undeniable advantages:

The shape that the cornea takes on during laser vision correction lasts for life. In some cases, in the absence of progressive myopia, a person will never need to

Several decades ago, many visual impairments were very difficult to correct - patients had to wear glasses throughout their lives or undergo dangerous surgical operations. With the development of innovative technologies, medicine has advanced significantly; today many eye diseases can be cured with laser correction. Like any other therapeutic technique, laser treatment has its advantages, disadvantages, indications and contraindications, which should be taken into account before undergoing surgery.

What is laser vision correction?

For the first time, surgical operations to eliminate visual impairments began to be used back in the 70s of the last century. Over time, the technique was improved, and the first procedure using laser technology was carried out in 1986. Since then, it has been widely used to correct the most common ophthalmic pathologies - myopia, farsightedness, etc.

The essence of the technique is to change the upper layers of the cornea, which allows you to create an ideal curvature that will correspond to all optical parameters. The most common laser correction techniques include photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), as well as its modern variants - LASIK, Custom Vue, Epi-LASIK, etc.

Indications and contraindications

Vision correction using laser technology is carried out at the age of 18 to 45 years for farsightedness, astigmatism and myopia with a certain degree, which have been stable (not progressed) throughout the year.

Table. Indications for laser vision correction.

Contraindications to surgical intervention include:

serious impairment of visual function (more than 12 diopters) in any of the above diseases or progression of the pathological process over the past 12 months;
having only one seeing eye;
systemic, autoimmune and infectious diseases;
ophthalmological pathologies that provoke changes in the cornea, retina, fundus (cataract, keratoconus, glaucoma, iridocyclitis, etc.);
cornea too thin;
pregnancy, breastfeeding.

To determine the presence of contraindications, patients are required to undergo a complete diagnosis of the body before undergoing surgery.

For reference: The possibility of laser vision correction after 45 years exists, but in this case the risk of developing age-related vision correction increases, which doctors always warn their patients about.

How is the correction carried out?

The operation using a laser is performed under drip anesthesia and consists of three main stages.

Stage 1. At the initial stage of surgery, a so-called flap is created on the surface of the cornea using laser equipment, which can later be unscrewed to gain access to other layers.

Stage 2. The device changes the shape of the cornea according to individual parameters, creating an ideal surface for focusing light rays.

Stage 3. The flap, formed from tissue, is returned to its place, after which it is healed without additional intervention, so there are no scars on the tissue.

After the procedure, the patient can go home and return to their normal lifestyle, following the recommendations given by the specialist. In the first time after surgery, you need to rest as much as possible, if possible, avoid activities that require eye strain and heavy physical exertion, and do not squint or rub your eyes. For rapid tissue regeneration, patients are prescribed drops, which should be used according to the instructions and medical prescriptions.

For reference: There are no restrictions regarding nutrition after laser vision correction, but patients must abstain from alcohol for the entire period of postoperative rehabilitation - alcoholic beverages negatively affect the blood circulation of the eyes and can interact with medications.

Video: Laser vision correction after 3 years

ReLExSMILE – the latest method of laser vision correction

SMILE technology is the 3rd generation, which replaced the outdated PRK and LASIK (including Femto-LASIK and Trans-PRK). It was developed in Germany in 2007 by Professor Walter Secundo and, since then, has taken a leading position throughout the world.

The correction is characterized by the absence of a flap (and associated complications), painlessness and virtually no rehabilitation period: the patient returns to his normal life the very next day.

In Russia, the expert on ReLExSMILE is Professor, Doctor of Medical Sciences - Shilova Tatyana Yuryevna, founder of the Moscow branch of the European network of clinics SMILEEYES:) and AugenklinikMoskau, where Professor Secundo himself conducts appointments.

Find out more about SMAFL correction on the clinic’s official website – WWW.SMILEEYS.RU

Video: Advantages of SMILE laser vision correction over PRK and LASIK

Benefits of laser correction

Over several decades, the laser correction technique has proven its effectiveness - millions of patients have become convinced that it has a number of advantages compared to other treatment methods.

For reference: The advantages include its availability, since the procedure is offered in almost every ophthalmology clinic, but its cost remains quite high - in the range of 25-40 thousand rubles per eye

Disadvantages of laser correction

Like any other treatment method, laser vision correction has a number of disadvantages, and one of them is discomfort during the recovery period. Some patients experience decreased night vision, the appearance of “spots” and “flashes” before the eyes, dry mucous membranes and a sensation of the presence of a foreign body. Discomfort is especially noticeable in the first hours after the procedure - doctors advise patients to come to the clinic accompanied by relatives, as it may be difficult for a person to get home on their own.

The likelihood of complications during laser correction is minimized, but still exists. Possible side effects of the procedure include:

corneal clouding;
incomplete correction;
obtaining the opposite effect (farsightedness in the treatment of myopia, etc.);
displacement of the pupils;
bacterial or herpetic keratitis;
conjunctivitis;
fragility of the eyeball;
disturbances of binocular vision.

Any of the above disorders requires repeated laser correction or surgery, and its successful outcome is not guaranteed. If the eyeballs become fragile after surgery, the patient will have to avoid heavy physical activity, active sports, high temperatures and any other influences that could cause harm for the rest of his life.

Finally, laser correction is not able to completely cure eye diseases, but only corrects their consequences. The causes of visual impairment remain and continue to affect the eyes, so after a few years a person may need glasses again.

Important: intense pain, severe redness of the cornea or swelling after laser surgery may be signs of complications and require immediate medical attention.

How to reduce the risk of side effects?

To minimize the risk of postoperative complications, you need to follow a number of simple recommendations.

Attention: We should not forget that each person’s body has its own characteristics, which can significantly affect the result of the operation - laser correction can be successful in one patient, while in another it can cause serious complications.

Is laser vision correction worth it?

Laser vision correction is an effective method for treating ophthalmological disorders, but despite the large number of advantages, it has a number of disadvantages and can lead to certain complications. For this reason, the decision to undergo the procedure should be made after consulting with a qualified specialist and carefully weighing the pros and cons.

Laser vision correction restores good vision and relieves patients suffering from myopia, farsightedness and astigmatism from glasses and contact lenses.

Today this is the most advanced and high-tech area of ophthalmology, which has proven itself to be a safe and effective way to restore vision.

Every year, millions of people around the world undergo this procedure, regaining the ability to see perfectly.

What is laser vision correction?

As you already know, laser vision correction restores good vision and relieves patients from glasses and contact lenses. Laser correction can be performed on patients aged 18 to 55 years who suffer from:

Myopia-1.0 to -15.0 dioptres Farsightedness from +1.0 to 6.0 diopters Astigmatism±0.5 to ±5.0 diopters

With any type of visual impairment, the image of surrounding objects is not focused on the retina. The purpose of laser vision correction is to change the shape of the cornea so that the image of objects accurately falls on the retina.

The point of laser vision correction is to change the shape of the cornea so that the image falls exactly on the retina, as shown in the figure.

The main advantages of laser vision correction

Every year, several million laser vision correction operations are performed worldwide. Over more than 20 years of observation, laser vision correction has proven its effectiveness and safety. Let's figure out together what advantages laser vision correction has:

Safety. The enormous period of observation of patients allows us to reliably talk about the safety, effectiveness and stability of the results of laser vision correction. It is used for all types of visual impairment. If the patient has no contraindications, laser vision correction can restore vision in almost all the most common degrees of myopia, farsightedness and astigmatism, as well as presbyopia. Almost any age. Patients between the ages of 18 and 55 are optimal candidates for this procedure. Speed of the operation. The operating time of the laser itself takes from a few seconds to a minute, the rest of the time is spent on preparatory procedures and takes 10 minutes per eye. No pain at all stages of the operation. Anesthetic drops are instilled into the eyes, which completely block pain sensitivity. The patient only feels touch and a feeling of pressure at some stages of the operation. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. There is no need for the patient to be in the hospital. Within an hour after the operation, the patient goes home. Rapid restoration of vision. Already 2 hours after surgery, the patient can evaluate the first results of laser vision correction. During the first week, vision will stabilize, and final recovery can be achieved when the corneal tissue is completely healed. The results of the correction are predictable. The patient has the right to rely on the visual acuity that he has with glasses or lenses before the correction. Stability of the results of the operation. After laser vision correction, the shape of the cornea is preserved for life. If the patient does not have progressive myopia, the results of the operation will last for many years.

Main stages of laser vision correction

Almost all laser correction operations consist of 3 main stages. The most popular method of laser vision correction in the world is Super LASIK. Using his example, we will look at the essence of laser vision correction:

The first stage of the operation is the creation of a superficial corneal flap using a microkeratome or laser. The flap is pulled aside like a page from a book.

The second stage of the operation - the laser beam changes the shape of the cornea according to the patient’s individual parameters.

The third stage of the operation is the return of the corneal flap to its original position and its healing without stitches or scars.

Types of laser vision correction operations

There are several different methods of laser vision correction. In descending order of popularity, we will consider the main ones:

Super LASIK(Super LASIK) is the most common operation today. Super LASIK is performed according to the individual parameters of each patient, therefore it gives the best results. LASIK(LASIK) is a basic technique that has given rise to rapid development of laser vision correction throughout the world. It does not take into account the individual structural features of the patient’s cornea. In modern laser vision correction centers, where there is special equipment, it has been completely replaced by Super LASIK. In clinics that do not have such equipment, LASIK is still performed. Femto LASIK(Femto LASIK) - the only difference from LASIK is that the cornea is cut not by a microkeratome, but by a special femto laser, which is where the name of the technique comes from. Femto Super LASIK(Femto Super LASIK) - the method is similar to standard Femto LASIK, but is performed taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s eye. Presby LASIK(Presby LASIK) - the technique takes into account age-related changes in near vision in patients after 40 years of age, trying to give good vision at all distances without glasses. PRK(PRK) - the method is used for contraindications to standard procedures. For example, when the patient has a too thin cornea. With PRK, the first 3 days after surgery are quite uncomfortable, while the corneal epithelium is restored. Epi-LASIK(Epi-LASIK) - A variation of the standard LASIK procedure that can sometimes be used for thin corneas, it is rarely used.

All about laser vision correction

Laser vision correction methods

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Laser vision correction is an effective and gentle type of surgery with a 30-year history. With its help, vision is restored to people with refractive errors - astigmatism, myopia (nearsightedness), hypermetropia (farsightedness). You will learn about all the pros and cons, as well as methods, risks and consequences, costs, reviews and other aspects of laser correction from this article.

What laser correction techniques exist?

There are three methods of vision correction using laser: FRK, LASEK, LASIK. The first of them (also called photorefractive keratectomy) is the oldest. It is effective for initial myopia, involves the removal of the corneal epithelium and the subsequent evaporation of its deep layers - Bowman's membrane, as well as the upper part of the stroma. The healing process usually lasts about 4 days.

The LASEK method, which is also called laser subepithelial keratomileusis, is more modern and gentle. The valve is formed from the epithelium, Bowman's membrane and part of the stroma, which after surgery will be attached in place and fixed with a temporary contact lens. In this case, the laser penetrates into the deeper layers of the stroma and eliminates significant degrees of astigmatism, farsightedness and myopia.

The LASIK method (another name is laser intrastromal keratomileusis) consists of two stages. At the surgical stage, the top layer of the cornea is cut off. After this, defects in its deepest layers are eliminated with a laser and the cut area is returned to its place. Healing occurs fairly quickly and, as a rule, without complications.

Indications

Laser vision correction is indicated for myopia (from -1 to -13 D), hypermetropia (from + 1 to + 6 D), astigmatism (from +/- 1 to +/- 4).

Contraindications for surgery

Contraindications for laser vision correction are:

cataract; glaucoma; progressive myopia; history of retinal surgery; iridocyclitis; inflammatory eye diseases; corneal dystrophy; pregnancy and lactation period; severe forms of diabetes mellitus; some systemic diseases. more information here: (mail.ru)

Advantages of the method

No pain. The intervention does not require general anesthesia (drip anesthesia is used). Fast (laser vision correction lasts about 20 minutes, and the laser is applied for 30-40 seconds). Short recovery period (after half an hour the patient can leave the clinic on his own; the effect of the operation is evident already on the first day). Long lasting stable results. Acupressure and safety.

All about the operation

At the diagnostic stage

Before surgery, you will need to undergo a full examination by an optometrist. He will measure basic eye parameters that are important to clarify the diagnosis.

An ophthalmologist will interpret the results. He will also examine your eyes, make a final diagnosis, recommend the most suitable laser correction method and answer your questions.

If changes in the retina are diagnosed during the examination, the laser correction procedure will have to be postponed and laser coagulation of the retina will be necessary. Only after this, no earlier than 2 weeks, will it be possible to correct visual acuity using a laser.

Preparation

In the last 24 hours, do not use cosmetics. Get blood tests for RW, hepatitis C and B.

How is the operation performed (according to the LASEK method)

Laser correction surgery lasts about 20 minutes

Laser vision correction usually takes no more than a third of an hour. You will be asked to lie down on the couch. The doctor will use numbing drops and place an eyelid speculum to prevent you from involuntarily closing your eye. After this, he will attach a ring to the eyeball and attach a special knife with a microkeratome.

Using a microkeratome, the doctor will make an incision and form a corneal valve with a diameter of about 8 mm. After this, he will remove the ring from the eye and turn the flap to the side. Your vision will become a little blurry.

When the doctor turns on the laser, you will hear a clicking sound. The operation of the laser is controlled by a computer program that analyzes the data from your examination. Once the laser has corrected the abnormal areas of the cornea, the doctor will return the corneal flap back into place. Due to the large amount of collagen, the flap is tightly fixed in its previous place and does not require sutures.

How does a laser work?

During the operation, a laser beam evens out irregularities and corrects corneal abnormalities. The cornea is the frontal part of the eyeball, which accounts for about 80% of the total refractive power of the eye. Light rays pass through it and are ideally focused on the retina. However, with myopia this occurs in front of the retina, with farsightedness it occurs behind it.

With astigmatism (when the spherical shape of the cornea is disrupted), the image on the retina is focused in the form of a straight line, and not a point, as nature intended. And objects are displayed distortedly for humans. During the laser correction procedure, photochemical ablation of part of the cornea occurs - simply evaporation of abnormal areas. As a result, its refractive power changes, which means that the light is focused where it is needed - on the surface of the retina, and the person no longer needs to wear glasses.

After operation

During the day after surgery, patients often complain of a burning sensation and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. Doctors recommend using special drops during this period, and also not using cosmetics for about 10 days. You cannot visit the sauna or engage in contact sports for one month.

Life after correction

The probability of long-term irreversible complications after surgery is 3-6%. These include dry eye syndrome, diplopia, fluctuations in visual acuity, keratoconus, etc. It is important to know that as a result of laser vision correction, the biochemical properties of the cornea change. This may affect the reliability of data on eye pressure, which is important in the diagnosis of glaucoma, as well as during subsequent surgical interventions for cataracts, since the parameters of intraocular lenses were changed during the operation.

Therefore, a patient who has undergone this type of operation needs to provide the ophthalmologist with complete information about the correction performed so that he can calculate the eye pressure and parameters of intraocular lenses using certain algorithms. Some doctors believe that over time, myopia and farsightedness may return, since the consequences, and not the cause of the disease, were eliminated during the operation. They recommend resorting to correction only if there is a significant deterioration in vision that affects the quality of life.

Before deciding to have surgery, you should thoroughly weigh the pros and cons, because laser correction is an irreversible intervention.

Cost of the operation

Prices for laser vision correction vary slightly, depending on the type of equipment used.

LASIK for myopia and hyperopia - from 26,000 rubles; LASIK in the presence of astigmatism - from 30,000 rubles; LASIK Super Vision - from 35,000 rubles; FEMTO LASIK - from 20,000 rubles.

When the operation is performed by a professor, the cost increases to 40,000 rubles.

Where to have surgery

There are many specialized laser vision correction centers. They perform operations using modern equipment, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. The operations are performed by highly qualified specialists, so errors and adverse reactions are excluded.

Video on the topic:

Indications for laser vision correction

The operation is performed for three main eye diseases:

Myopia. This disease is also called myopia. It occurs as a result of a change in the shape (stretching) of the eyeball. Focus is formed not on the retina, but in front of it. As a result, the image appears blurry to the person. Correction of myopia is possible by wearing glasses, contact lenses, laser and surgical methods. Eliminating the cause of the disease - the altered shape of the eyeball - is currently impossible. Farsightedness. The disease occurs due to a decrease in the size of the eyeball, decreased accommodation of the lens (often occurs in old age), and insufficient refractive power of the cornea. As a result, the focus of nearby objects is formed behind the retina, and they appear blurry. Farsightedness is often accompanied by headaches. Correction is carried out by wearing glasses, lenses, and laser operations. Astigmatism. This term refers to a person's ability to see clearly. It arises from an abnormality in the shape of the eye, lens or cornea. The focus of the image is not formed on the retina. The disease is often accompanied by migraines, eye pain, and rapid fatigue when reading. It can be corrected by wearing special glasses with different longitudinal and transverse curvature of the lenses. But the most effective is laser surgery.

All these diseases are united under the general name “ametropia”. This includes ailments associated with problems with focusing the eye.

Indications for vision correction surgery for the three diseases described are:

The patient's desire to get rid of glasses and contact lenses. Age from 18 to 45 years. Refractive indexes for myopia are from -1 to -15 diopters, for farsightedness – up to +3 diopters, for astigmatism – up to +5 diopters. Intolerance to glasses or contact lenses. Professional needs of patients, the requirement of special visual acuity and speed of reaction to the image. Stable vision. If the deterioration gradually progresses (more than 1 per year), then you first need to stop this process, and then talk about laser correction.

Contraindications

The operation is not performed in the following cases:

Age up to 18 years. Before adulthood, the formation of the eyeball occurs, so it is better to wait until the end of the process for adequate correction. Retinal detachment, glaucoma and cataracts. Such diseases make it difficult to accurately identify refractive problems caused by ametropia. Therefore, before prescribing laser corneal correction, it is recommended to get rid of the above pathologies. Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Keratotonus. This disease causes thinning of the cornea and changes in its shape. Exposure to it can lead to increased atrophic processes. Diabetes mellitus, vascular pathologies. In such cases, the blood supply to the retina is often disrupted and retinopathy develops. Dry eye syndrome, decreased sensitivity of the cornea. Inflammatory diseases in acute or chronic stages. Oncological processes. Severe mental illness.

Preparation for laser correction

The patient must stop wearing glasses or contact lenses at least a week before the correction. It is better to take a vacation during this time. This is necessary for the cornea to take its natural shape. Then the correction will be more adequate and accurate. The doctor may increase the period of refusal from artificial lenses at his discretion.

Types of operation

There are two main methods of correction - PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and LASIK (laser assisted keratomyelosis). The first operation allows you to correct myopia up to 6 diopters, astigmatism up to 2.5-3 diopters. Both types of laser correction are carried out sequentially: first on one eye, then on the other. But this happens within the framework of one operation.

For laser correction of farsightedness and myopia complicated by astigmatism, Lasik is more often used. This is because PRK requires a long (up to 10 days) healing time. Each type of operation has its pros and cons, but still Lasik is a more promising direction, so this method is most often preferred.

Photorefractive keratectomy

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

Preparations are similar to those for PRK. The cornea is marked with safe ink. A metal ring is placed over the eye, which additionally secures it in one position.

The operation takes place under local anesthesia in three stages. At first, the surgeon creates a flap from the cornea. He detaches the superficial layer, leaving it attached to the underlying tissue, using a microkeratome instrument—specially modeled for eye microsurgery.

laser vision correction: progress of the operation

The doctor removes excess fluid with a sterile swab. At the second stage, he bends the flap and performs laser evaporation of the cornea. The entire process takes less than one minute. During this time, the flap is also covered with a sterile swab. At the third stage, the separated piece is placed in its place, according to the previously applied marks. After rinsing the eye with sterile water, the doctor smoothes the flap. No sutures are required; the cut-off piece is fixed on its own due to negative pressure inside the cornea.

Video: how laser vision correction is done

Postoperative period, patient instructions

On the first day after laser correction, the following reactions are normal:

Pain in the operated eye. With Lasik, it is usually insignificant and feels like a foreign object getting under the eyelid. Discomfort when looking at light. Tearing.

In the first few days after surgery, the patient is recommended to:

Be in a darkened room. Light can cause pain and stinging in the eyes. It unnecessarily irritates the cornea, which prevents its healing. Avoid touching the eye, especially in the first day. Important! The patient may feel as if a speck has gotten under his eyelid; there is no need to try to remove it! If the discomfort is very severe, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. If there is no cause for concern, he may prescribe desensitizing medications. Refusal to shower and wash. It is very important that your eyes are not exposed to any chemical agents that may be contained in soap or shampoo. Even water sometimes has a negative effect on the operated eye. Avoid alcohol until the course of medication is completed. Antibiotics are incompatible with alcohol. It also makes many other drugs work worse.

During the first few weeks it is advisable to:

Stop smoking and visiting polluted places. Smoke has a bad effect on the cornea, causes it to become dry, and impairs its nutrition and blood supply. Because of this, it may heal more slowly. Do not engage in sports that may impact the eyes - swimming, wrestling, etc. Injuries to the cornea during the recovery period are extremely undesirable and can lead to irreparable consequences. Avoid eye strain. It is important not to spend a lot of time at the computer, reading a book or watching TV. You should also avoid driving in the evening. Avoid bright light, wear sunglasses. Do not use cosmetics for eyelids and eyelashes. Do not wear contact lenses for 1-2 weeks.

Risks and consequences of the operation

There are early and late postoperative complications. The first ones usually appear within a few days. These include:

Non-healing corneal erosion. Its treatment is quite complex and requires consultation with specialized specialists. Common methods of therapy are the use of collagen coatings of the cornea, contact vision correction (use of soft lenses). Reduction in the thickness of the epithelial layer, its progressive destruction. It is accompanied by swelling and the development of erosions. Keratitis (inflammation of the eye). It can be infectious or non-infectious in nature. Keratitis manifests itself in redness of the eye, pain, and irritation. Opacities in the evaporation zones of the cornea. They can also occur later in the rehabilitation period. Their cause is excessive evaporation of corneal tissue. The complication, as a rule, responds well to treatment with the use of resorption therapy. In some cases, it is necessary to resort to repeated surgery.

The overall rate of long-term complications with Lasik is 1-5%, with PRK – 2-5%. In the later stages, the following negative consequences of laser correction may become apparent:

Dry eye syndrome. With this pathology, a sufficient amount of tear fluid does not form. The patient feels irritation, pain, redness. Involuntary lacrimation often occurs. The syndrome is successfully treated with certain medications in the form of drops. Hypercorrection. This phenomenon occurs as a result of excessive ablation (evaporation) of the cornea. It leads to a change in the sign of ametropia, myopia is replaced by farsightedness and vice versa. We can talk about hypercorrection only after the end of the recovery period (3 months). Sometimes additional surgery may be required. It is only allowed if the cornea is thick enough. Irregular astigmatism. This is the name for the different refraction of light in one eye and along one meridian. In this case, glasses rarely correct astigmatism; the use of special contact lenses is necessary. Keratoconus. This is the process of degradation of the cornea, as a result of which it takes on a cone-shaped shape. As a result, vision begins to rapidly deteriorate. For treatment, both conservative and surgical therapy are used.

Vision restoration

Results vary depending on the type of surgery, underlying disease, and degree of vision impairment. The best results are possible with correction at the initial stages of the disorder.

For myopia

For farsightedness

For astigmatism

With this disease, both methods manifest themselves almost identically. Research from 2013 was published on the Ophthalmology Portal. According to the observational results, “there was no statistically significant difference in effectiveness, safety or predictability [achieved: astigmatism<1 Д в 39% операций, выполненных методом ФРК и 54% - методом ЛАСИК и <2 D в 88% ФРК и 89% ЛАСИК (P = 0,218)».

However, it is worth noting that the success rate of operations is not too high - 74-76%. And also the improvement in vision when using the Lasik method is slightly higher than with PRK.

The cost of laser vision correction, surgery under compulsory medical insurance policy

There is information about the possibility of receiving such assistance for military personnel and their relatives in military hospitals. So, on the website of the Military Medical Academy named after. CM. Kirov in the city of St. Petersburg states: “The Academy provides inpatient and outpatient admissions to military personnel and their families, as well as citizens who have compulsory medical insurance or voluntary health insurance policies from companies that have entered into an agreement with the Military Medical Academy. Without a policy, the Military Medical Academy provides services to the population on a paid basis.” The list of medical procedures provided includes “laser correction of visual acuity.” Probably, in general practice, such operations are carried out free of charge if there is an agreement with a specific hospital in the region of military service/residence and the technical capabilities of the medical institution.

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

The most popular and well-known medical centers in the two largest cities of Russia are:

Excimer. The organization has branches in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other regions. This is one of the largest companies engaged in eye microsurgery. The clinics use the most modern techniques; prices for procedures are usually higher than average. Here, several modifications of Lasik are performed depending on the patient’s condition. Patient reviews of the clinic are usually positive. Patients are satisfied with the result, attitude and work of the staff. MNKT Eye Microsurgery named after. Svyatoslav Fedorov in St. Petersburg. The institution carries out 24,000 operations per year, which has allowed it to gain vast experience. Its founder, Svyatoslav Fedorov, was one of the pioneers in laser vision correction in Russia. Patients in their reviews note the professionalism of the doctors and the clear organization of the clinic. Institute of Eye Diseases named after. Hemholtz in Moscow. This institution greatly influenced the development of domestic ophthalmology. The great scientific potential of the institute allows you to use the latest developments in this area, make accurate diagnoses and select optimal treatment methods. Prices for services in the institution are below average, which determines its popularity among the population. Despite the professionalism of the doctors, some patients note that the attitude of the institute’s staff leaves much to be desired. Eye clinic "Lege Artis" in Moscow. The priority of the medical institution is in high-precision equipment and specialists with extensive experience. The clinic's services are in high demand. The only negative that patients pay attention to is the high prices. Medsi Clinic in St. Petersburg. An excimer laser is used for laser vision correction. Operations are performed only using the Lasik method. Patients find it convenient to have an online consultation with the clinic’s leading ophthalmologist.

Video: LASIK laser vision correction - patient review

Video: laser vision correction - operation progress

Keratomileusis makes it possible to correct myopia, farsightedness and astigmatism. More details about the service...

To correct visual impairment today, as a rule, hospitalization is not required, and the medical service itself can be provided within 15–20 minutes. Find out more...

Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy is usually not painful for the patient. Find out more...

When choosing a private ophthalmology clinic, you should pay attention to the qualifications of doctors, the reputation of the medical institution and current prices. Where can I go in Moscow?

If you are unlucky with your eyesight, this does not mean that you will have to wear glasses or contacts for the rest of your life. Laser vision correction techniques allow you to get rid of myopia, farsightedness and astigmatism. Laser technologies in ophthalmology are the cutting edge of this field of medicine, the most innovative and perfect way to correct vision defects.

In order for us to see everything clearly and clearly, the eye must focus. It is the inability to “adjust” the correct focus that is the cause of poor vision. With the help of a laser, doctors today can change the shape of the cornea so that the eye regains the ability to focus and the image falling on the retina is clear.

The first method of laser vision correction was developed quite a long time ago - operations began to be performed in the late 1980s. Since then, the approach has improved significantly. Every year, about 3 million operations are performed in the world, and their number is growing - people are no longer wary of this procedure, and prices are gradually decreasing, making laser vision correction accessible to many.

Indications and contraindications for the procedure

What problems can laser vision correction help solve? This procedure is effective for myopia up to -12 diopters, farsightedness up to +6 diopters and mixed astigmatism from -4 to +4 diopters. Sometimes it is indicated for more serious defects.

Laser vision correction can be recommended to anyone who suffers from vision problems. It is especially necessary for those who for some reason cannot wear lenses or experience significant discomfort when using them. Laser vision correction is also an excellent solution for those who have problems with only one eye.

Before you go to find out the cost of laser vision correction, read the list of contraindications for this procedure, including:

cataract; glaucoma; rapidly progressing visual impairment; diabetes; presence of a pacemaker; pathologies of the cornea (this includes thinning, keratoconus and others); infectious eye lesions; pregnancy (after the laser correction procedure, strong physical activity is contraindicated, and childbirth is a load almost to the limit of one’s capabilities).

A conditional contraindication is considered to be age under 21 (although exceptions are possible here).

Possible complications

Despite the fact that laser vision correction is a quick and low-traumatic operation, it is worth remembering that some risk is still present. The chances of complications developing are minimal, but they do exist. However, it should be noted that most often they arise due to non-compliance with the rules of conduct after surgery. So, complications after laser vision correction include:

swelling, inflammation and hemorrhage; trauma and displacement of the corneal flap (often caused by the patient touching the eye); decreased contrast sensitivity at dusk (manifests itself in the first time after surgery and goes away over time).

Helpful information
According to statistics, the risk of developing any complications after laser vision correction surgery is 2%.

How is the procedure performed?

Laser vision correction is carried out using a special installation - a laser beam directed at the cornea evaporates layers of cells, the thickness of which is measured in microns, to change the shape of the cornea. This is an incredibly delicate and high-tech procedure.

Nevertheless, for the patient himself it is simple and quick. Laser vision correction is performed on an outpatient basis. After all examinations, diagnosis and consultations with an ophthalmologist, the patient lies down on the couch, the doctor administers local anesthesia using eye drops and fixes the eye in an open state.

Then the doctor, using a keratome, forms a thin flap of the cornea and moves it to the side, as if opening the page of a book. After this, the cornea is treated with a laser beam, which evaporates some of the cells and gives the cornea the necessary shape, carefully calculated in all respects. When the manipulation is completed, the doctor returns the corneal flap to its place and smoothes it. Antibacterial drops are instilled into the eye, the fixative is removed, and the patient can go home.

Many patients are worried about the thought: what will happen if I accidentally shift my gaze during surgery? After all, if laser correction is such a delicate work, the consequences of the slightest movement of the eyeballs will be catastrophic! There is really no risk. Modern lasers track minimal deviations of the eyeball; as a result, the laser beam hits exactly the place that was initially determined by the computer. If the eyeball deviates too much, the device automatically stops working. The entire operation takes 10–15 minutes, and the time of direct laser exposure to the eye ranges from 30 to 40 seconds. The operation is completely painless. Moreover, even during a short rehabilitation period, the patient does not feel any discomfort or pain. However, for a speedy recovery and to prevent the development of complications, some rules should be followed.

For 3–4 weeks after surgery, you should not rub your eye (preferably not touch it at all); you should wear dark glasses even in cloudy weather. Overheating (baths, saunas, solariums, hot baths), physical activity and sports games, drinking alcohol should be avoided, and women should also avoid using cosmetics.

There are several methods of laser vision correction. Their main differences are the type of laser used for the operation and the method of shaping the corneal surface for ablation.

Laser vision correction techniques

PRK- photorefractive keratectomy. This is the oldest method from which the victorious march of laser vision correction began around the world. This was the most advanced technique in the late 1980s and early 1990s, but is now rarely used. It is more traumatic than others and has a high risk of corneal clouding. However, this method is cheaper than others and does not require a very highly qualified doctor, which is why it has not yet fallen out of use. LASIK- unlike PRK, this method, in addition to the excimer laser, involves the use of a microkeratome device (to form a corneal flap). The approach is less traumatic, quicker rehabilitation (in one day), and has greater opportunities for vision restoration (elimination of myopia up to -12 diopters). LASIK allows surgery to be performed on both eyes at once. Femto LASIK- the same LASIK, only the corneal flap is formed using a femtolaser. Super LASIK- the most popular and widespread method of laser vision correction. During the operation using the Super LASIK method, the structural features of the cornea and the characteristics of the higher order aberration of each patient are taken into account, which allows us to achieve the best and lasting result - within 1-2 hours after the operation the patient sees the world clearly and clearly. The number of possible complications after such an operation is also minimal. Epi LASIK- a type of LASIK, developed for thin corneas, a rather rare and little-used method, but it can help those who, for some reason, are not suitable for other vision correction methods. LASEK- another type of laser correction for thin corneas, developed in 1999 in Italy. It is more invasive than LASIK and can be painful. SMILE (ReLex)- correction technology using femtosecond laser. With this method, a so-called corneal lenticule is formed internally and removed through an incision. This method allows you to correct only minor myopia.

How much does laser vision correction cost?

The cost of laser vision correction depends on the type of operation, the equipment used, the severity of the problem, the reputation and level of both the clinic in general and the doctor in particular. On average, the price of laser vision correction in Moscow ranges from 25 to 40 thousand per eye.

The cost of examination and postoperative observation should be added to the price of the operation itself.

“Open your eyes”, “look at the world with different eyes”... In the context of modern ophthalmology, these phraseological units take on a direct meaning. Laser correction technologies allow people with severe visual impairments to gain visual acuity in just half an hour. The main thing is to choose a reliable clinic, a qualified specialist and a suitable technique.

Indications for laser vision correction

Contraindications

Preparation for laser correction

Types of operation

Photorefractive keratectomy

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

Video: how laser vision correction is done

Postoperative period, patient instructions

Risks and consequences of the operation

Vision restoration

For myopia

For farsightedness

For astigmatism

The cost of laser vision correction, surgery under compulsory medical insurance policy

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

Video: LASIK laser vision correction – patient review

Video: laser vision correction - progress of the operation

In this article

When is laser vision correction prescribed?

When does a person need to sign up for laser vision correction?

Contraindications to laser vision correction

Absolute contraindications

How is laser vision restoration surgery performed?

Are there complications after laser correction?

How long does laser vision correction surgery take?

Laser vision correction techniques

Laser correction of vision pathologies: advantages

What is laser vision correction?

Indications and contraindications

How is the correction carried out?

Video: Laser vision correction after 3 years

ReLExSMILE – the latest method of laser vision correction

Video: Advantages of SMILE laser vision correction over PRK and LASIK

Benefits of laser correction

Disadvantages of laser correction

How to reduce the risk of side effects?

Is laser vision correction worth it?

What is laser vision correction?

The main advantages of laser vision correction

Main stages of laser vision correction

Types of laser vision correction operations

All about laser vision correction

Laser vision correction methods

Links on the topic “Laser vision correction”

What laser correction techniques exist?

Indications

Contraindications for surgery

Advantages of the method

All about the operation

At the diagnostic stage

Preparation

How is the operation performed (according to the LASEK method)

How does a laser work?

After operation

Life after correction

Cost of the operation

Where to have surgery

Indications for laser vision correction

Contraindications

Preparation for laser correction

Types of operation

Photorefractive keratectomy

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

Video: how laser vision correction is done

Postoperative period, patient instructions

Risks and consequences of the operation

Vision restoration

For myopia

For farsightedness

For astigmatism

The cost of laser vision correction, surgery under compulsory medical insurance policy

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

Video: LASIK laser vision correction - patient review

Video: laser vision correction - operation progress

Indications and contraindications for the procedure

Possible complications

How is the procedure performed?

Laser vision correction techniques

How much does laser vision correction cost?