New frontier in laser eye surgery
VISION correction surgery, or refractive and laser eye surgery, is any surgical procedure used to correct vision problems. Extensive research has provided invaluable refinements and advancements of laser technology and diagnostic tools to develop safe treatment options for refractive disorders.
Laser- assisted in situ keratomileusis ( Lasik) is presently the most performed elective procedure.
In recent years, tremendous advancements have been made in this field. A new procedure called ReLex Smile is gaining popularity.
Unlike conventional Lasik, ReLex Smile does not create flap and involves the use of only one laser ( the femtosecond laser).
Instead of vapourising cornea tissue to correct the underlying short- sightedness and astigmatism, ReLex Smile carves out a small piece of corneal tissue called a lenticule in the cornea, which is removed through a small keyhole incision ( about 2.5 to 4mm).
This single- step, all- in- one- laser operation only takes about 30 seconds to perform correction for one eye and the entire procedure is complete in about 15 minutes for both. This laser is fast and uses very low energy. The procedure is odourless and silent, so there is less discomfort for patients.
Patients also feel more comfortable because suction on the eye during treatment is gentler. There is no frightening “blackout” or bleeding ( no red eye) during the procedure or swelling of the eye after treatment.
Due to the smaller wound by minimally invasive surgery, ReLex Smile results in a much stronger eye and less immediate postoperative discomfort and tearing. A small incision also means fewer corneal nerves are severed during the procedure, which also means less dry eye. With no flap created, flap displacement or dislodgement is not an issue. ReLex Smile is a good option for those involved in contact sports.
Most patients will experience a dramatic improvement in their vision a day after the surgery and then remain stable days after.
If the present direction and volume of research is any guide, a large proportion of tomorrow’s femtosecond technological advances and discoveries will be based on mastery of treating refractive errors without even touching the cornea. All treatment will be intrastromal and ReLex Smile is currently the most advanced procedure available.
Choosing laser eye correction is not a decision you should take lightly. Keep in mind that it is still a surgical procedure that carries surgical risk, although risk is very small and the success rate very high. Have your eyes properly evaluated and examined by the eye surgeon prior to surgery and discuss all options and potential risks in detail before making any final choices.
For details, contact KPJ Pusat Pakar Mata Centre For Sight at 03- 4022 6222 ( KL); 03- 7804 4051 ( PJ).