Excimer Laser Surgeries: Sharp Solutions to Vision Problems

With the advancement of technology, vision problems are corrected with excimer laser surgeries that offer more effective and permanent solutions for many people. Excimer laser is a treatment method for correcting refractive errors by precisely shaping the corneal tissue on the eye.

Basic Principles of Excimer Laser Surgery

Excimer laser surgery relies on the use of an excimer laser, a type of ultraviolet light, to ablate (erode) the corneal tissue. This ablative procedure is performed to smooth the surface of the cornea and ensure that light is properly focused within the eye.

Excimer Laser Surgery Stages

1. Inspection and Evaluation
   
   • The first stage is an examination and evaluation by an ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist examines the individual’s eye structure and determines whether excimer laser surgery is appropriate.
2. Cornea Mapping
   
   • Before excimer laser surgery, a detailed map of the corneal surface of the eye is created using computerized technology. This map provides basic information to plan the surgeon’s intervention.
3. Anesthesia and Laser Ablation
   
   • On the day of surgery, local anesthesia is applied to ensure patient comfort. The excimer laser then performs ablation in a controlled manner, focusing on the corneal surface.
4. Recovery and Follow-up
   
   • After excimer laser surgery, the healing process in the patient’s eyes is usually rapid. The ophthalmologist evaluates the patient’s health with regular checks and follow-ups.

Advantages of Excimer Laser Surgery

1. Lasting Results
   
   • Excimer laser surgery usually provides permanent results. Once the procedure is complete, patients can have clear vision for many years.
2. Fast Recovery
   
   • Recovery after surgery is usually fast. Many patients can return to their normal daily activities in the days following the procedure.
3. Personalized Treatment
   
   • Excimer laser surgery can be customized to the patient’s eye structure and needs. This ensures a more effective and convenient treatment.

Methods of Laser Technology

PRK and No-Touch Laser

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a laser surgery method used to correct eye defects. In this procedure, the epithelial tissue, the outer layer of the cornea, is gently removed and then the cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser. After the procedure, temporary contact lens wear may be required to allow the cornea to heal. PRK is a safe and effective option to solve vision problems in patients who are not suitable for LASIK. No-Touch Laser is a laser treatment of the outer layer of the cornea without the use of alcohol. In this method, the epithelial tissue is vaporized directly with the excimer laser and then the cornea is shaped. After this procedure, which takes about 2 minutes for each eye, patients are recommended to wear special contact lenses to support corneal healing.

LASIK and ILASIK (Femto-LASIK)

LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely preferred method of treating refractive errors. In this technique, an excimer laser is used to change the shape of the cornea. In LASIK, the epithelium, the outer layer of the cornea, is removed with a special blade to create a flap. In ILASIK, the flap is created using a Femtosecond laser, which is a more precise and safer method. After the flap is removed, the excimer laser is used to shape the cornea in the substrate.

SMILE

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is another laser surgery method used to correct refractive errors. In this method, a thin piece called a lenticule is removed from the stroma, the inner layer of the cornea. The procedure is performed only with Femtosecond laser without the use of Excimer laser. This technique has less impact on the anatomy of the cornea and offers an effective option for treating refractive errors such as myopia and astigmatism. With SMILE, myopia up to 10 degrees and astigmatism up to 5 numbers can be treated by making personalized incisions.