Laser surgery is computer-controlled surgery which uses a laser to reshape the cornea to improve vision. The two most common treatments are lasik and lasek.
Lasik is laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis. During this procedure, a cutting instrument called a microkeratome or a femto-second laser cuts a thin layer of the cornea. This flap is then lifted back and a computer-controlled excimer laser reshapes the underlying surface of the cornea. The flap is then replaced in its original position. The procedure is quick, recovery is fast and results are seen within 24 hours.
Lasek is laser-assisted epithelial keratomileusis. If the cornea is too thin or making a flap could be problematic, then lasek is the preferred treatment. Instead of a flap of the cornea being lifted, a very thin layer of cells that covers the surface of the cornea is gently pushed to one side using micro- instruments to allow laser treat- ment. After the laser has re-shaped the exposed surface of the cornea, the cells are put back in place.
Again, the procedure is very quick and a bandage contact lens is usually placed on the eye for a number of days following the procedure. Recovery is slower than with lasik and there is usually more initial discomfort. The end results are, however, at least as good as with Lasik.
Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is the original laser refractive technique. As with the above, PRK is performed with an excimer laser. It reshapes the cornea by removing tiny bits of tissue from the centre of its surface.
Conductive keratoplasty (CK) is a procedure that is specifically designed to tackle age-related changes in the eye, where the lens loses its elasticity. The treatment uses radio waves to change the shape of the cornea and improve near vision. Usually it is performed in one eye only to improve close-up vision. The other eye, left untouched, provides most of the distance vision.
Unlike Lasik, the surgeon does not have to cut the flap in the cornea, minimising the incidence of dry eye and other complications.