Around 50% of the world’s population needs some type of vision correction. To obtain clear vision, many individuals elect to wear contact lenses; however, more and more are recognizing the benefits of choosing laser eye surgery.
Considered a notable development in ophthalmology over the past few decades, laser eye surgery in Dubai can help treat a variety of eye diseases and conditions. Plus, it can help you achieve close-to-perfect vision. Never again will you have to remember to pack your contact lenses or clean your glasses!
If you are thinking about getting the surgery, or are just interested in learning more about the options for improving your vision, here are some of the important details you need to know about laser eye surgery.
1. How does laser eye surgery work?
The term LASER is an acronym which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. During laser eye surgery, ophthalmic lasers reshape the cornea to allow light to enter the eye to be correctly focused onto the retina for clearer vision. Candidacy for laser eye surgery is typically dependent upon the stability and health of the eyes.
Generally, the surgery should take around 30 minutes. Throughout the process, you will lie on your back in a reclining chair, and a numbing drop will be put into your eye. Next, your eye area will be cleaned and a lid speculum will be utilized to hold your eyelids open. In some cases, a surgeon may create a flap in your cornea, under which the correction will be made, to then be covered by this flap.
Once your eye is in the right position, your doctor will apply the laser. A computer controls the amount of laser energy delivered to your eye. It will have already been programmed to vaporize a precise amount of tissue based on the measurements taken at your initial evaluation. Once the laser has vaporized the corneal tissue, the flap will be returned to its original position.
After the whole procedure is performed using laser technology, you will begin to see the benefits within 15 minutes and over the following hours of your surgery’s completion.
2. What are the benefits of laser eye surgery?
The main benefit of laser eye surgery is that it corrects vision. Most patients who opt for this surgery will soon experience enhanced (not perfect) vision without needing glasses or lenses. That being said, no one can guarantee 20/20 vision, so be wary of any surgeons who claim this. In many cases, adjustments can be performed years after the surgery to enhance vision further (if necessary).
Laser eye surgery is also associated with minimal pain thanks to the numbing drops that are used during the process, and no bandages or stitches are required. Your eyes will also be healthier (and you will be happier), mainly if you are a wearer of contact lenses, as you will no longer be at high risk of eye irritation and eye infection. What’s more, your eyes will no longer become aggravated by air conditioning or dusty environments.
Many individuals enjoy a considerable boost in confidence after having laser eye surgery because not having to wear glasses or lenses all the time can have a meaningful effect on one’s self-esteem.
3. What should I expect after surgery?
Once the procedure is completed, your eyes may burn or itch somewhat, and you may feel some discomfort or mild pain. Plus, your vision will most likely be slightly blurry. However, you do not want to rub your eye as this could displace the flap, necessitating additional treatment.
Usually, these symptoms can be expected to improve significantly within a few hours and days, but you should still plan on taking a few days off from work until they recede. Keep in mind that it can take up to three to six months for your vision to fully stabilize.
It is typical for your doctor to want to see you back within the first 24 to 48 hours and then at regular intervals for six months. Many people like and need to use artificial tears to help lubricate the eye, but always ask your doctor for recommendations and instructions. You will most likely have to refrain from using lotions, creams, or makeup around your eyes for up to two weeks.
Do not participate in any physical activity for the first couple of days after surgery. Note that playing all strenuous contact sports should be postponed for at least four weeks. You do not want your eyes to get hurt by someone bumping into you, or a ball hitting you in the face.
Final Thoughts
As long as you see the best ophthalmologist in Dubai (or wherever you reside), then you can be assured that you are getting top-quality laser eye treatment. For individuals who have to wear contact lenses or glasses every day, laser eye treatment can be a worthwhile investment. You will enjoy permanently corrected vision and will only need to get an annual check-up with your eye doctor. That means no more changing prescriptions and no more multiple eye exams.
AUTHOR BIO
Dr. Millicent M. Grim, Specialist Ophthalmologist & LASIK Specialist, is the Medical Director of Gulf Eye Center in Dubai. Since 2002, Gulf Eye Center’s highly qualified ophthalmologists and optometrists/ODs have been successfully treating a wide range of eye conditions using advanced techniques. They also provide comprehensive eye care and vision restoration procedures for people of all ages.