Eye Refractive Surgers and its Types>>
- Refractive Eye Surgery
- What is LASIK Surgery?
- Indications for LASIK Surgery
- Types of Refractive Eye Surgery and Devices
- Duration of LASIK Surgery
- LASIK Surgery Cost
- Contraindications for Refractive Eye Surgery
Refractive Eye Surgery
Refractive eye surgery is a surgical procedure used to correct eye vision problems and improve visual clarity. These procedures involve changing the shape of the cornea, altering the natural lens of the eye, using intraocular lenses, or using laser technology to fix visual defects.
What is LASIK Surgery?
LASIK surgery is one of the most common vision correction procedures worldwide, referring to the correction of local corneal curvature using laser technology.
It is a procedure in which the shape of the cornea, the front part of the eye, is corrected using specialized laser beams that fix any issues with the light reflections for vision. As a result, the light is focused on the retina at the back of the eye.
Indications for LASIK Surgery
This procedure is typically used to correct vision in the following cases:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia).
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia).
- Astigmatism, which causes blurry and distorted vision.
Types of Refractive Eye Surgery and Devices
There are several types of laser and LASIK vision correction procedures that are commonly used to adjust the cornea and remove vision defects without surgery, including:
Femto-LASIK (Femto Lasik):
This is an eye surgery procedure in which two types of lasers are used to correct vision: the advanced femtosecond laser, which is used to create a highly precise thin corneal flap, and the excimer laser, which reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. One of its variants is Femto-SMILE.Surface LASIK (PRK – Photorefractive Keratectomy):
During PRK, the thin surface layer of the cornea is removed using a laser device, and then vision is corrected.Trans-Epithelial (TPRK):
In this procedure, excimer laser is used to adjust the shape and curvature of the cornea, correcting the vision without the need to lift a layer or flap from the cornea.LASIK (Lasik):
This involves removing a thin surface layer of the cornea, about 60 microns thick. Then, the laser beams are directed at the remaining surface, and finally, the flap is repositioned. LASIK is typically performed on individuals with thin or curved corneas.Customized Laser (Eye Print or Custom Laser Correction):
This type of vision correction surgery uses guided lasers to remove part of the cornea and reshape the eye’s cornea. It is based on the idea that each eye and its vision deficiency is unique, much like a fingerprint, and measurements can be taken with extreme precision to guide the laser for personalized treatment.Implantable Contact Lens (ICL):
This involves implanting corrective lenses inside the eye through a tiny incision at the edge of the cornea. The lens is then unfolded and positioned in front of the natural eye lens, improving focus on the retina. This procedure is used for individuals with extreme vision defects that LASIK or surface lasers cannot treat, as well as patients who are not suitable candidates for these surgeries due to thin corneas or significant dry eyes.Corneal Rings (Corneal Ring Implants):
Corneal ring implantation is a surgical procedure in which a ring made of moderately flexible material is placed in the middle layer of the cornea to correct its shape, allowing the patient to see clearly.
Duration of LASIK Surgery
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a quick and effective surgical procedure typically performed within a few minutes for one eye. Generally, the duration of the procedure depends on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience and skill, as well as the patient’s eye condition. Typically, the procedure takes a maximum of 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes (approximately 5-7 minutes per eye).
LASIK Surgery Cost
Recently, Saudi Arabia has become one of the leading Arab countries in terms of interest in cosmetic procedures. One of the frequently asked questions is the cost of LASIK surgery in the Kingdom. As mentioned, the price of the procedure ranges between 800 to 1600 US dollars, which is equivalent to 3000 to 6000 Saudi Riyals. The cost of LASIK surgery in Saudi Arabia in 2021 is the lowest in years, due to the technological advancements seen in the country’s medical sector.
Contraindications for Refractive Eye Surgery
There are some contraindications and considerations that may prevent certain individuals from undergoing vision correction surgery, including the following:
Age: In general, Dr. Mohammed Al-Anzi recommends delaying vision correction surgery until the eye has fully developed, which is usually around the age of 18 or older. This is because the shape and size of the eye may change during the growth years, and it’s important that the eye’s shape is stable before undergoing the procedure.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Our doctors at Roya Hakim advise postponing vision correction surgery during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hormonal changes during these periods can affect vision, so it is preferable to delay the procedure until these phases have passed.
Health Issues: Certain diseases and health conditions, such as diabetes and other eye diseases, may be factors that prevent vision correction surgery.
Thin Cornea: If you have a very thin cornea, this may make you unsuitable for certain types of vision correction procedures.
Other Medical Conditions: There are certain medical conditions that must be considered when contemplating vision correction surgery. The surgeon should assess whether there are any health issues that may prevent the individual from undergoing the procedure.
Every individual should consult with a specialized eye doctor to assess their individual case and determine whether there are any specific contraindications preventing them from undergoing vision correction surgery. Always make sure to discuss accurate and detailed information with the surgeon and address any concerns you may have before proceeding with the procedure.