Individuals who may be suitable for laser treatment can be summarized as follows:
- People over 18 years of age with mild myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
- People over 21 years of age with high degrees of myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
- Individuals with sufficient corneal thickness.
- Those whose prescription has not increased significantly over the year prior to considering treatment.
- Those without eye diseases such as keratoconus or glaucoma.
- Those without systemic diseases such as advanced diabetes or rheumatism.
- Individuals who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
A detailed medical examination should determine the suitability for the procedure.
What Are the Types of Laser Surgery?
Since eye structure varies from person to person, the same laser eye treatment cannot be applied to everyone. Types of laser surgeries include:
LASIK
One of the most commonly used methods in eye surgeries. A thin flap in the cornea is lifted, laser is applied to the underlying layer, and the flap is replaced. The recovery process is quick and painless.
PRK
A laser treatment applied by peeling the surface layer of the cornea. It may be preferred for patients with thin corneas.
No Touch Laser
A method performed entirely with lasers without physical contact with the eye. It is ideal for athletes and individuals with an active lifestyle.
SMILE
One of the newest technologies. A small incision is made in the eye for the laser procedure. It is applied in the treatment of myopia and astigmatism.
What Examinations Are Performed Before Laser Treatment?
Before laser eye treatment, each patient undergoes a detailed preliminary assessment. Special tests are performed to determine if your eye structure and health status are suitable for laser treatment. The steps in this process include:
Eye Prescription Measurement
During an eye examination, defects like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are identified. These defects are measured using different tests and the values are examined.
Corneal Thickness Measurement (Pachymetry)
Since the procedure during laser treatment is applied to the cornea, it is essential that the corneal thickness is sufficient. Thin corneas may not be suitable for some types of lasers.
Eye Map (Topography)
The shape of the front surface of your eye is visualized in 3D. Diseases like keratoconus can be detected with this test, allowing for personalized laser planning.
Eye Pressure Measurement
It is essential to assess whether there is glaucoma. Laser treatment may not be suitable for individuals with high or at-risk eye pressure.
Dry Eye Test
The health of the eye surface is crucial for the success of the treatment. Tear production is measured, and if dry eye is present, it may need to be treated before the laser procedure.
How Long Does Laser Surgery Last?
Laser treatment is generally completed in a short time, about 4-5 minutes per eye. Patients do not experience pain or discomfort during this process.
Advantages of Laser Treatment
Laser eye treatment is an effective and comfortable method to correct vision defects. Here are some advantages of laser treatment:
- It can be an effective treatment for correcting myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia vision defects.
- It can offer a comfortable vision opportunity in daily life for athletes.
- The treatment and healing process may vary from person to person.
- It can provide a long-term and permanent solution.
- It offers a more free lifestyle from an aesthetic perspective.
Post-Laser Treatment Recovery Process
There are several important considerations during the recovery process after laser surgery:
Temporary discomforts such as mild stinging, tearing, and blurred vision within the first 4-6 hours after surgery can be considered normal. The eye’s response to these symptoms improves in a short time.
After surgery, daily activities can typically be resumed the next day. However, it is crucial to rest if experiencing excessive fatigue or if different recommendations are provided by the doctor.
Clear vision may occur within a few days post-operation. During this period, it is essential to rest the eyes and use protective eyewear as recommended by the doctor.
Follow-up check-ups continue at intervals such as the 1st week and the 1st month after surgery. In these check-ups, the state of eye health is assessed and necessary interventions are performed.
Eye drops are also part of the recovery process. Using the eye drops prescribed by the doctor regularly helps to moisten the eye and supports the recovery process.
Post-Laser Surgery Considerations
To increase the success rate of the treatment and not risk eye health, attention should be paid to the following:
- You should avoid rubbing your eyes in the first weeks.
- Water and soap-like substances should not touch the eyes in the first days.
- The prescribed drops should be used timely and regularly.
- Protective glasses or sunglasses should be worn during the period specified after treatment.
- Avoid dusty and smoky environments.
Doctor’s check-ups should not be neglected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser treatment a permanent solution?
Yes, laser treatment is permanent. When vision is corrected, usually a permanent improvement is achieved, but results may vary depending on the severity of the vision impairment and the age of the person.
Will eye prescription increase again after laser treatment?
Individuals who undergo laser surgery may still need to use glasses if their prescription is still progressing, which is why the prescription must have been stable for at least one year. After laser treatment, 95% of myopic patients and 70% of hyperopic patients achieve positive results.
Will one need to wear glasses after laser treatment?
Most individuals can start seeing clearly after laser surgery. However, in some specific cases, a low-degree need for glasses may arise.
When can I start working or driving after laser surgery?
Daily life can be resumed 24–48 hours following the treatment. However, due to temporary light scatter in night vision in the first days, caution is advised.