Refractive Surgery

What is Refractive Surgery?

Refractive surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct refractive errors in the eye. The most common type of refractive surgery is LASIK, but other techniques such as PRK and SMILE are also used. Refractive surgery uses laser technology to reshape the cornea. These procedures are generally known for their rapid recovery and high success rates.

How is Refractive Surgery Performed?

LASIK

• Before the surgery, the eyes are examined in detail and measurements are taken.

• Local anesthesia is applied with eye drops to prevent the eye from moving during the surgery.

• A thin flap is created on the corneal surface using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser.

• This flap is lifted to reshape the cornea.

• • The excimer laser removes microscopic amounts of tissue from the lower layer of the cornea.

  • This procedure corrects vision disorders by changing the refractive power of the cornea.

  • The corneal flap is carefully placed in place and allowed to adhere naturally.

  • It usually does not require stitching.

PRK

• Local anesthesia is applied with eye drops.

• The epithelial layer on the corneal surface is removed mechanically or using alcohol.

• Tissue is removed from the surface of the cornea using an excimer laser.

• The refractive power of the cornea is changed.

• • The epithelial layer regenerates spontaneously, a process that may take several days.

  • During the healing process, the eye can be protected with a bandage contact lens.

SMILE

• Local anesthesia is applied with eye drops.

• A small lenticule (piece of tissue) is created in the cornea using a femtosecond laser.

• • The lenticule is removed through a small incision in the cornea.

  • This procedure changes the refractive power of the cornea and corrects vision disorders.

How Long Does Refractive Surgery Take?

LASIK

• LASIK surgery usually takes about 10-15 minutes for each eye. If both eyes are operated on together, the total time will be 20-30 minutes.

• The creation and laser shaping of the corneal flap is completed within a few minutes. The active working time of the laser on the cornea varies between 30-60 seconds, depending on the patient's degree of vision.

PRK

• PRK surgery takes approximately 10-15 minutes for each eye. If both eyes are operated on together, the total time will be 20-30 minutes.

• The duration of the laser on the corneal surface varies between 30-60 seconds, depending on the degree of visual impairment of the patient. The epithelial layer removal and laser treatment take a few minutes in total.

SMILE

• SMILE surgery usually takes about 15-20 minutes for each eye. If both eyes are operated on together, the total time will be 30-40 minutes.

• The process of creating and removing the lenticule with the femtosecond laser is usually completed within a few minutes.

Post-Refractive Surgery Period

• Immediately after the surgery, the patient is kept under observation in the recovery room for a short time.

• Temporary discomfort such as a slight burning sensation, stinging sensation in the eyes or blurred vision may occur. This is normal and usually passes within a few hours.

• It is recommended to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.

First 24 Hours:

• Rubbing the eyes and closing them tightly should be avoided for the first night.

• Antibiotic and steroid eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly.

• Sleeping with your head elevated the first night may help reduce swelling.

First Week:

• Mild swelling and redness in the eyes are normal. These symptoms usually subside within a few days.

• Hygiene should be taken into consideration to prevent eye infection. It is important not to touch the eyes without washing your hands.

• Light activities can be done. However, heavy exercises and activities that require contact with water should be avoided.

• Activities that tire the eyes, such as computer use and watching television, should be limited.

First Month

• You should attend doctor follow-up appointments. During these check-ups, the eye's healing status is evaluated and, if necessary, changes are made to the treatment plan.

• It is important to protect your eyes from the sun. Before going out in the sun, you should wear sunglasses with UV protection.

• Contact lens use should be stopped completely for the period specified by the doctor.

• Visual clarity gradually increases and becomes stable.

• Heavy physical activities can be gradually increased, but sports and activities that may cause impact to the eyes should be avoided.

3-6 Months:

• The healing process may vary from person to person, but full recovery is usually completed within 3 to 6 months.

• Visual acuity stabilizes during this time and the final results of the surgery become apparent.

• Regular doctor check-ups should continue and possible complications should be detected early.