An excimer laser is a type of ultraviolet laser used in various applications, particularly in refractive eye surgery to correct vision problems caused by refractive errors (nearsightedness (myopia),farsightedness (hyperopia),and astigmatism). Excimer lasers operate with extremely short pulse durations, on the order of nanoseconds, allowing for precise shaping of cornea without causing thermal damage to the surrounding tissue.
Excimer laser surgery utilizes excimer laser to reshape the cornea, thereby correcting common refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia),farsightedness (hyperopia),and astigmatism. This surgical procedure is often done to eliminate or reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Two common types of excimer laser surgery are LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy).
In LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser. The excimer laser is then used to remove a certain amount of corneal tissue (directed by the refractive error-amount of myopia, hypermetropia). Then, the created flap is repositioned, and the cornea begins to heal rapidly.
LASIK may not be suitable for people with thin corneas or certain corneal conditions such as keratoconus (a condition characterized by thinning and bulging of the cornea) because eyes with thin corneas may end up with residual stromal bed lower than the safety margin.
In PRK surgery, the surgeon completely removes the corneal epithelium (outermost layer) to expose the stroma. This means there is no flap creation, and no flap complications occur.
Excimer laser is then applied to reshape the corneal stroma. Over time, the epithelium is renewed (this healing period is relatively longer than LASIK). It is potentially suitable for people with thinner corneas which is not suitable for LASIK for this reason alone.
In brief, LASIK and PRK involves reshaping the cornea by utilizing excimer LASER to improve cornea' ability to focus light on the retina, thereby eliminating dependence on glasses or contact lenses. (subject to amount of refractive error). It may be also used for enhancements after other refractive procedures or touch-ups after a previous laser vision correction procedure to address mild changes in vision so called fine tuning.
Before refractive laser surgery, a comprehensive eye examination is performed to evaluate people's eye health, corneal topography, corneal thickness and refractive errors.
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis):LASEK is a variation of PRK that involves preserving a thin layer of the epithelium, which is later repositioned after the excimer laser treatment. LASEK may be considered for certain individuals with specific corneal characteristics.
Corneal Transplantation (Phototherapeutic Keratoplasty): In some cases of corneal transplantation, the excimer laser may be used for precise shaping of the donor cornea to match the recipient's corneal curvature.
The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the patient's specific eye/cornea characteristics, refractive errors, and overall eye health. The decision should be made in consultation with an experienced eye care professional who can assess the individual's suitability for a particular surgery.
Excimer laser surgery can be used for refractive enhancements or touch-ups after a previous laser vision correction procedure to address changes in vision. It's important to note that the suitability for excimer laser surgery depends on factors such as the patient's overall eye health, corneal thickness, and the specific characteristics of the refractive error or corneal condition.
Before undergoing any excimer laser procedure, individuals should undergo a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with an experienced eye care professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific needs.
Excimer laser is a versatile tool used in ophthalmic surgery to correct refractive errors and treat various corneal conditions. The two main methods of excimer laser surgery for vision correction are LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). These methods differ based on how they prepare the cornea for laser ablation.
While excimer laser surgery is safe and effective procedure for many individuals, not everyone is a suitable candidate. Certain factors may disqualify candidates from undergoing excimer laser surgery. Here are some conditions or situations that may make a person not suitable for excimer laser surgery:
Excimer laser surgery is considered safe. Success rate and patient satisfaction is high. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks and potential complications. It's important for individuals considering excimer laser surgery to be aware of these risks and discuss them thoroughly with their eye care professional.
Common risks and complications associated with excimer laser surgery; dry eye syndrome, under correction (residual refractive error) or overcorrection (new type of refractive error),regression, visual disturbances such as glare and halos, corneal haze, infection, flap complications (LASIK),corneal ectasia. It's worth to note that most individuals who undergo excimer laser surgery achieve aimed outcome with improved vision and no significant complications.
After excimer laser surgery, it is crucial to follow post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and reduce risk of complications.
General rules and things to consider after excimer laser surgery:
Excimer laser surgery in Turkey is a fast and effective journey. Each patient is unique, it is paramount to have a detailed consultation with an experienced eye doctor before deciding on such surgery.
The cost of excimer laser surgery in Turkey varies depending on the clinic or hospital, the cost of the excimer laser procedure, the specific technique used (LASIK, PRK etc.),the expertise of the surgeon and the level of pre- and post-operative care provided.
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