For those looking to enhance their visual quality and reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses, Refractive Surgery is one of the most effective solutions modern medicine offers. At Yıldız Acar Ebcim, we are delighted to provide you with the highest quality and safest services with our expert team specializing in Refractive Surgery.
What is Refractive Surgery?
Refractive Surgery refers to surgical interventions aimed at correcting refractive errors in the eye. These procedures reshape the eye’s lens or cornea, ensuring light is focused correctly onto the retina, thereby correcting conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness), hypermetropia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related near vision loss).
Types of Refractive Surgery
1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
- Definition: A method involving the creation of a corneal flap, reshaping the cornea with a laser, and repositioning the flap.
- Advantages: Quick recovery time, minimal discomfort, short procedure duration.
- Applications: Correction of myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism.
2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
- Definition: The removal of the cornea’s surface layer and reshaping the cornea with a laser.
- Advantages: Suitable for patients with thinner corneas, preserves corneal structure.
- Applications: Correction of myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism.
3. LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis)
- Definition: Similar to PRK, but the corneal epithelium is lifted gently and preserved during reshaping.
- Advantages: Less pain and faster recovery.
- Applications: Correction of myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism.
4. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
- Definition: A minimally invasive method that removes a small lenticule from the cornea’s inner layer to reshape it.
- Advantages: Less corneal tissue loss, lower risk of complications.
- Applications: Correction of myopia and astigmatism.
5. ICL (Implantable Contact Lenses)
- Definition: Special contact lenses implanted in front of the natural lens of the eye.
- Advantages: Permanent yet reversible solution, suitable for severe myopia and hypermetropia.
- Applications: Severe myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism.
Advantages of Refractive Surgery
- Reduced Dependency on Glasses and Contact Lenses: Most patients achieve clear vision without needing glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
- Natural and Clear Vision: Laser technology ensures precise light focusing on the retina for sharp and clear vision.
- Quick Recovery Time: Especially with LASIK, patients can return to their daily activities within days.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Reduced dependence on glasses enhances facial aesthetics.
- Long-Lasting Results: When performed correctly, these surgical interventions provide permanent and durable results.
Risks of Refractive Surgery
- Dry Eyes: Temporary dryness in the eyes may occur after surgery.
- Light Sensitivity: Discomfort with bright lights may be experienced.
- Temporary Vision Issues: Under- or over-correction may lead to temporary vision problems.
- Infection and Inflammation: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
- Asymmetry: Improper application may result in slight asymmetry in vision.
Pre- and Post-Refractive Surgery Guidelines
Before Surgery:
- Eye Examination: Comprehensive eye exams to assess suitability for surgery.
- Medication Usage: Follow pre- and post-operative medication instructions carefully.
- UV Protection: Use sunglasses to protect eyes from UV rays.
After Surgery:
- Rest: Adequate rest is crucial after surgery.
- Use Eye Drops: Apply prescribed eye drops as directed by your doctor.
- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the treated area clean to avoid infection.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy sports and physical activities for a specific period.
- Regular Check-Ups: Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled by your doctor.
Who Can Benefit from Refractive Surgery?
- Patients with Myopia: Those who see clearly up close but struggle with distant vision.
- Patients with Hypermetropia: Those who see clearly at a distance but struggle with close vision.
- Patients with Astigmatism: Individuals with blurred vision at all distances due to irregularly shaped lenses or corneas.
- Patients with Presbyopia: Those with age-related difficulty focusing on close objects.
- Candidates for Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL): Those with severe myopia or hypermetropia.
Refractive Surgery is an effective solution for correcting refractive errors and achieving clear vision. At Yıldız Acar Ebcim, we use the latest technologies and provide the highest quality service with our experienced and expert team. Contact us to improve your vision quality and protect your eye health.
