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Health

Laser vision correction

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Laser vision correction is a surgical procedure that is performed using laser irradiation to reshape the cornea (the transparent front surface of the eye) to improve vision and correct certain types of refractive errors of the eye. These refractive errors include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hypermetropia), and astigmatism.

Indications for the procedure

Laser vision correction, also known as laser vision surgery, may be recommended in the following cases:

  1. Correction of nearsightedness (myopia): Laser correction can be performed to reduce or eliminate myopia, in which a person sees well up close but poorly far away.
  2. Correction of farsightedness (hyperopia): If a person has farsightedness, laser correction can help improve near and distance vision.
  3. Astigmatism correction: Laser correction can be performed to correct astigmatism, which is characterized by image distortion due to unfocused light rays.
  4. Elimination of age-related farsightedness (presbyopia): Laser correction can be performed for those who suffer from age-related farsightedness and have difficulty reading and seeing close objects.
  5. Contact lens or glasses intolerance: People who cannot or do not want to wear glasses or contact lenses can opt for laser vision correction.
  6. Improved quality of vision: Laser correction can be performed to improve the quality of vision and comfort in daily life.
  7. Correcting Sports-Related Visual Problems: Active athletes and people with busy lifestyles may choose laser vision correction to improve their athletic performance and safety.

It is important to note that the decision to undergo laser vision correction should be made on an individual basis, after consultation with an ophthalmologist or vision surgery specialist. Not everyone is suitable for this procedure, and results may vary depending on the degree and characteristics of visual problems. Only a qualified doctor can assess whether laser vision correction is appropriate for a particular patient.

Preparation

Preparation for laser vision correction includes several important steps and recommendations. These steps will help ensure the procedure is successful and safe. Here are general guidelines for preparing for laser vision correction:

  1. Consultation with an ophthalmologist: The first and most important step is a consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist who will perform a preliminary examination and determine if laser correction is right for you. The doctor will also tell you about the different correction methods and help you choose the most appropriate one.
  2. Eye health: Make sure you do not have infections or other eye conditions that could affect the results of laser correction. Any eye problems should be treated before the procedure.
  3. Contact lens removal: If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before your preliminary examination and vision correction. Contact lenses can distort the shape of the cornea and it is important to take this into account during the pre-exam measurement.
  4. Exclusion of pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, laser correction is best postponed until after the breastfeeding period is over and hormonal balance has been restored.
  5. Rest time before the procedure: It is important to get enough sleep the night before the procedure to be rested and relaxed during the laser correction. Avoid drinking alcohol and settle down for the night beforehand.
  6. Preparing for surgery: After your consultation and planning for the procedure, follow all instructions from your ophthalmologist regarding taking medications and using eye drops.
  7. Post-operative support: Usually after laser vision correction, it is recommended that the patient limit activity and avoid rubbing or rubbing the eyes for some time. You may also have a restriction in driving for the first day or a few days after surgery.

It is important to remember that every case is different and your ophthalmologist's recommendations may vary depending on the method of laser correction and your specific needs. Please discuss all aspects of preparation with your doctor and follow their instructions to ensure a successful and safe procedure.

Technique of the laser vision correction

Here are the general steps that are followed during these procedures:

LASIK laser vision correction

It is a surgical procedure (Latin for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) that is performed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism. LASIK is one of the most common methods of laser vision correction. Here is the general course of the LASIK procedure:

  1. Preparation:

    • The patient is given a preliminary eye examination, including measurement of refraction (visual errors) and analysis of the corneal structure.
    • The doctor determines the parameters of vision correction and plans the procedure according to the patient's individual characteristics.
  2. Anesthesia:

    • Before the procedure begins, the patient is locally anesthetized with eye drops to provide comfort and prevent pain.
  3. Creation of the "cap" of the cornea:

    • The doctor creates a thin "flap" (flap) on the cornea using a microkeratome or laser microkeratome. This "flap" is lifted to allow access to the underlying layers of the cornea for correction.
  4. Laser correction:

    • A specialized laser (usually an excimer laser) is used to remove corneal tissue with precision to reshape the cornea and eliminate visual errors. Laser correction takes only a few seconds.
  5. Restoration of the "cap":

    • The "cap" of the cornea is carefully restored to its place after laser correction.
  6. Healing:

    • The cornea heals quickly and usually does not require stitches or a patch. The healing process may take a few days.
  7. Postoperative follow-up:

    • The patient may be prescribed eye drops and other medications to support healing and reduce the risk of infection.
    • After surgery, the patient is usually advised to follow the doctor's instructions, avoid rubbing the eyes, wear protective goggles and avoid contact with water to prevent infections.

LASIK is generally a safe and effective procedure that allows many people to significantly improve their vision. However, results can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the quality of the surgery. Before undergoing LASIK, it is important to have a detailed consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist and discuss all aspects of the procedure.

PRK laser vision correction

Photorefractive keratectomy is one of the procedures used to improve vision, especially to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hypermetropia), and astigmatism. Here are the basic steps and technique for performing PRK:

  1. Patient Preparation:

    • Prior to the procedure, it is important to perform a preliminary eye exam, including a vision test and anatomical characteristics of the eye.
    • The physician will discuss the expectations, risks and benefits of PRK with the patient, and clarify whether the procedure is appropriate for the patient.
  2. Anesthesia:

    • The eye is anesthetized with a local anesthetic so that the patient feels no pain during the procedure.
  3. Removal of the epithelium:

    • The doctor carefully removes the top layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. This can be done with a mechanical instrument or a laser.
  4. Corneal Correction:

    • A specialized excimer laser (such as the Excimer laser) is used to remove micro layers of tissue from the cornea, changing its shape and focusing light on the retina in a way that improves vision.
    • The laser works on the molecules of the corneal layer, vaporizing them without damaging neighboring tissues.
  5. Completion of the procedure:

    • After corneal correction, the doctor places a protective lens or binoculars on the patient's eye to prevent infections and protect the cornea.
  6. Recovery and post-procedure care:

    • After PRK, patients are usually advised to wear protective eyewear and take medication to reduce the risk of infection and speed up the healing process.
    • Your vision will begin to improve within a few days, but full recovery can take weeks or even months.

PRK has its pros and cons compared to another popular vision correction procedure, LASIK. Advantages of PRK include not creating a flap on the cornea (as in LASIK) and potentially less risk of complications. However, the recovery period after PRK is usually longer and more painful.

It is important that PRK is performed by an experienced ophthalmologist, and the patient should carefully follow post-procedure care recommendations and regular follow-up visits. Before deciding to undergo PRK, patients should discuss all aspects of the procedure with their doctor and have a detailed eye examination.

SMILE laser vision correction

It is a state-of-the-art Small Incision Lenticule Extraction vision correction technique that uses laser technology to treat myopia (myopia). SMILE differs from other methods, such as LASIK and PRK, in that the process does not utilize a sharp and strong flap of the cornea. Instead, the doctor creates a small lenticule (lenticule) inside the cornea that is then removed, reshaping the cornea and improving the focus of light on the retina. Here are the basic steps in the technique for performing SMILE laser vision correction:

  1. Patient Preparation:

    • Prior to the procedure, the patient undergoes a preliminary eye exam, including measuring vision and evaluating the structure of the eye.
  2. Anesthesia:

    • The eye is anesthetized with a local anesthetic to prevent pain during the procedure.
  3. Creation of a lenticule:

    • Using a femtosecond laser beam (typically a VisuMax femtosecond laser is used), the doctor creates a small lenticule inside the cornea. This process involves creating small gas bubbles in the cornea that separate the lenticule from the rest of the cornea.
  4. Removal of the lenticule:

    • The doctor carefully removes the lenticule through a small incision that is usually made on the surface of the cornea. This incision is much smaller than with LASIK and does not require the creation of a flap.
  5. Completion of the procedure:

    • After the lenticule is removed, the eye is closed and protected with a contact lens or other methods to speed up the healing process.
  6. Recovery and post-procedure care:

    • Your vision will begin to improve within a few days after the procedure, but full recovery can take weeks or even months.
    • Patients are advised to follow their physician's recommendations for post-procedure care, including the use of medications and restrictions on physical activity and contact with water.

The benefits of SMILE include a smaller incision, less destruction of the corneal structure, and faster recovery of vision compared to LASIK. This procedure is also less likely to cause dry eye because most of the nerve endings on the cornea are preserved. However, SMILE requires more high-tech equipment and surgeon experience, so not all clinics provide this service.

As with any surgical procedure, it is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor to determine if SMILE is right for you and what risks and benefits it offers in your particular case.

LASEK laser vision correction

It is a Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy surgical procedure, an alternative to LASIK, which is also used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The difference between LASEK and LASIK is how the corneal tissue is accessed and the tissue is removed. Here is the general technique for performing the LASEK procedure:

  1. Preparation:

    • Patient preparation is similar to that used for LASIK. The patient is given a preliminary eye examination and planning for vision correction.
  2. Anesthesia:

    • The patient is locally anesthetized with eye drops to provide comfort and prevent pain.
  3. Corneal preparation:

    • The doctor applies a special solution (usually alcohol) to the epithelium (top layer) of the cornea to soften it and prepare it for removal.
  4. Creation of a "cap" epithelium:

    • After preparing the epithelium, the doctor creates a gentle "lid" using an instrument such as a microkeratome or mechanical brush and gently shifts it to the side, allowing access to the deeper layers of the cornea.
  5. Laser correction:

    • A specialized excimer laser is used to remove part of the corneal tissue to reshape it and correct vision. Laser correction is performed according to a preliminary plan developed by the doctor.
  6. Restoration of the "cap":

    • "Cover" epithelium is carefully restored to its place, and usually no stitches are required.
  7. Healing:

    • The corneal epithelium begins to heal and set within a few days. Your doctor may prescribe eye drops and medications to speed healing and reduce the risk of infection.
  8. Postoperative follow-up:

    • The patient should follow the doctor's recommendations after the procedure, including wearing protective eyewear and avoiding eye rubbing. Typically, vision may be temporarily blurred for the first few days after LASEK.

LASEK is generally considered a gentler option for laser vision correction than LASIK because it does not involve creating a "lid" (flap) in the cornea. The procedure may also be more suitable for patients with thin corneas or specific eye anatomy. However, it may require a longer time to restore vision compared to LASIK.

Femtosecond laser vision correction

This is a modern method of Femtosecond Laser-Assisted LASIK or FS-LASIK, which uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin "cap" (flap) on the cornea and correct visual errors. Here is a general technique for performing the FS-LASIK procedure:

  1. Preparation:

    • As with other methods of laser vision correction, the patient undergoes a preliminary eye examination and consultation with an ophthalmologist to determine suitability for the procedure.
  2. Anesthesia:

    • Before the procedure begins, the patient is locally anesthetized with eye drops to provide comfort and prevent pain.
  3. Creating a "lid" with a femtosecond laser:

    • The femtosecond laser is used to create a very thin "cap" (flap) on the cornea. This process provides high precision and control over the thickness and shape of the flap.
    • "Lid" is lifted to allow access to the underlying corneal layers for correction.
  4. Laser correction:

    • A specialized excimer laser is used to remove corneal tissue and correct visual errors with high precision.
    • Laser correction is performed according to individual parameters determined by the doctor.
  5. Restoration of the "cap":

    • After laser correction, the "cap" of the flap is carefully restored to its place.
  6. Healing:

    • The cornea will begin to heal and set in place. Over the next few days or weeks, vision will gradually improve.
  7. Postoperative follow-up:

    • The patient is prescribed eye drops and medications to speed healing and reduce the risk of infection.
    • Patients are usually advised to follow their doctor's instructions, avoid rubbing their eyes, and wear protective eyewear for the first few days after surgery.

FS-LASIK femtosecond laser correction allows for a more precise creation of the flap "cap" on the cornea, which can reduce the risk of complications and improve the results of the procedure. This method is often preferred for patients who have thin corneas or special anatomical features of the eye.

Contraindications to the procedure

Laser vision correction, including LASIK, LASEK and other methods, can be effective and safe for many patients, but there are some contraindications and limitations that may make this procedure unsuitable. Contraindications to undergoing laser vision correction include:

  1. Unstable refraction: If your visual parameters (myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism) have been changing actively over the past few months, laser correction may not be desirable because the results may be unstable.
  2. Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness: If the degree of nearsightedness (usually more than -10 diopters) or farsightedness (usually more than +5 diopters) is too high, laser correction may be less effective and carries a higher risk of complications.
  3. Thin cornea: If your cornea is too thin, performing laser correction may not be acceptable due to potential complications such as corneal flap prolapse.
  4. Unstable vision due to medical conditions: Some systemic and ocular diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts may make laser correction unsuitable. The procedure is also not recommended for inflammatory conditions of the eye.
  5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is better to postpone laser correction until the end of pregnancy and breastfeeding period, as hormonal changes may affect the stability of vision.
  6. Young age: Laser correction is usually recommended in patients over the age of 18 to make sure their refraction is stable.
  7. Inability to adhere to postoperative recommendations: The patient must be able to follow the doctor's postoperative eye care instructions and undergo regular follow-up examinations.

It is important to note that contraindications and restrictions may vary depending on the method of laser correction and the individual characteristics of the patient. Before undergoing laser vision correction, always consult with an experienced ophthalmologist who will assess your suitability for the procedure and give specific recommendations.

Consequences after the procedure

After a laser vision correction procedure such as LASIK or LASEK, most patients recover relatively quickly and without serious complications. However, some temporary effects and symptoms may occur. Here are some of them:

  1. Dry and sandy feeling in the eyes: This is one of the most common symptoms after laser correction. Eye drops prescribed by your doctor can help reduce discomfort.
  2. Tearing and lacrimation: You may experience temporary tearing and lacrimation after the procedure, but this usually improves within a few days.
  3. Blurred vision: There may be slight blurring of vision for a few days or weeks after surgery, but this usually improves as the cornea heals.
  4. Light sensitivity: Some patients may experience a temporary increase in sensitivity to bright light. Glasses with sunglass lenses may help manage this problem.
  5. Night vision: At night, some patients may temporarily experience halo (glowing rings around light sources) or hallucinations in the form of flickering lights. These symptoms also usually improve with time.
  6. Short distance vision impairment: Some patients may experience a temporary impairment in short distance vision, especially after correction of hyperopia. This may take time for the eye to adapt to the new visual status.
  7. Vision changes: Your visual parameters may continue to change over time, especially if you have a young age.

It is important to emphasize that most of these symptoms and effects are temporary and improve within the first few weeks after the procedure. However, sometimes more serious complications such as infections, inflammation or failed vision correction can occur. Therefore, it is important to strictly follow your doctor's recommendations after surgery and to have regular follow-up examinations to assess the condition of your eyes and vision.

Complications after the procedure

Laser vision correction such as LASIK, LASEK or PRK is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, but as with any medical procedure, complications can occur. Here are some of the potential complications after laser vision correction:

  1. Tearing, itching and sensitivity: These symptoms can also occur after the procedure and usually improve with time.
  2. Halo and Halo: Some patients may see glowing circles around light sources (halo) or flickering lights at night (halo). These symptoms are usually temporary, but may last for weeks or months.
  3. Deterioration of short distance vision: Some patients may experience a temporary deterioration of short distance vision (presbyopia), especially after farsightedness correction. This requires time for adaptation.
  4. Infections and inflammation: Although rare, infections or inflammatory reactions may occur after the procedure. Patients are usually prescribed antibiotic eye drops for prophylaxis.
  5. Correction errors: In rare cases, under- or over-correction of vision may occur, which may require additional procedures to correct.
  6. Epithelial Problems: Problems with the epithelium (the top layer of the cornea) can occur, including flap shift or damage to the flap.
  7. Visual Impairment: Some patients may not experience significant visual improvement after the procedure and may continue to have visual errors.

It is important to note that most of these complications are rare or temporary, and many patients achieve excellent results after laser vision correction. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your ophthalmologist before the procedure and to carefully follow all postoperative recommendations to minimize the risks of complications.

Care after the procedure

Care after a laser vision correction procedure is important to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a quick and successful recovery. Here are some general guidelines for care after laser vision correction (e.g., LASIK or LASEK):

  1. Follow your doctor's recommendations: Follow all instructions given to you by your ophthalmologist before and after the procedure. It is important to follow all prescriptions and come in for scheduled follow-up appointments.
  2. Use eye drops: After surgery, your doctor will prescribe special eye drops. Use them exactly as directed to help moisturize and heal the cornea.
  3. Do not rub your eyes: Refrain from rubbing or touching your eyes for the first few weeks after surgery. This can prevent the flap (if it was created) from shifting or being damaged and reduce the risk of infection.
  4. Avoid vigorous physical exertion: Refrain from vigorous sports and physical activity that can cause sweat and dust in the eyes for several days or weeks.
  5. Protect your eyes from bright sunlight: For the first few weeks, wear sunglasses with UV filters when outdoors to prevent additional eye irritation and protect your eyes from the sun's rays.
  6. Avoid makeup and cosmetics: Refrain from applying makeup and using cosmetics around the eyes for the first week after surgery.
  7. Observe hygienic practices: Always wash your hands when performing eye care procedures (such as using eye drops).
  8. Make sure it's safe to drive: If you drive, make sure your vision is fully restored and that you feel comfortable before you get behind the wheel again.
  9. Monitor your vision: Your doctor will monitor your visual status and adjust your treatment if necessary.

Check with your ophthalmologist for specific care recommendations after your particular laser vision correction procedure, as some guidelines may vary depending on the correction method and individual patient characteristics.

What can and cannot be done with laser eye correction?

Laser vision correction is a serious surgical procedure, and there are certain guidelines regarding what can and cannot be done before and after the procedure. These recommendations may vary slightly depending on the type of surgery and the individual characteristics of the patient, but here are the general principles:

What you can do:

  1. Prepare for the examination: Have a pre-operative examination and consultation with an ophthalmologist. He or she will tell you about the procedure, perform the necessary tests, and make recommendations.
  2. Follow your doctor's recommendations: Follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your ophthalmologist at all times. This includes recommendations regarding discontinuation of contact lenses prior to surgery and any other preparations.
  3. Prepare for post-operative care: Find out what your recovery period will be and what restrictions you will be given after surgery, and prepare to abide by them.

What you can't do:

  1. Avoid makeup: Before surgery, try to avoid makeup and cosmetic products in the eye area as they can increase the risk of infection.
  2. Do not wear contact lenses: You may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for a certain amount of time before surgery. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to do this.
  3. Avoid alcohol and smoking: Your doctor may recommend that you avoid alcohol and smoking in the days before surgery, as it can affect the recovery process.
  4. Don't forget about post-operative recommendations: There are also certain restrictions after surgery, such as avoiding rubbing your eyes, using protective glasses or lenses, and not doing vigorous physical activity. Follow all your doctor's recommendations during this period.

It is important to follow all of your ophthalmologist's instructions and recommendations to ensure that your laser vision correction procedure is safe and effective.

Can I drink alcohol after laser vision correction?

After laser vision correction, it is usually recommended that you abstain from alcohol for a certain period of time to allow your eyes to recover properly. The amount of time it is recommended to abstain from alcohol may vary depending on the surgical technique and individual patient characteristics, so the best way to know the exact recommendations is to contact your ophthalmologist.

In general, however, the following recommendations may be relevant:

  1. Refrain from alcohol for the first few days after the procedure: This time may vary, but generally doctors recommend abstaining from alcohol for a few days after laser vision correction.
  2. Follow yourdoctor's recommendations: Your ophthalmologist will provide you with specific recommendations on what period of abstinence from alcohol you should observe, as well as other aspects of eye care after the procedure.
  3. Avoid drinking alcohol before your doctor's appointment: If you have a doctor's appointment scheduled for the day after laser vision correction, it is best to refrain from drinking alcohol the day before, as alcohol can affect eye health and pupil response.
  4. Consider your personality: Your doctor may take your health and personality into account when recommending alcohol. For example, if you have a medical contraindication to drinking alcohol, your doctor will warn you against drinking alcohol.

Can I wear lenses after laser vision correction?

After laser vision correction such as LASIK or LASEK, wearing contact lenses usually becomes optional, as the goal of the procedure is to improve vision without the aid of glasses or lenses. Many patients who opt for laser vision correction do so to break their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

However, there are a few important points to consider:

  1. Recovery Period: During the first few weeks after laser vision correction, the eyes may be sensitive and require special care. Your doctor usually recommends avoiding contact lenses during this period.
  2. Adaptation time: Your eyes may take some time to adapt to their new visual status after surgery. During this period, wearing contact lenses may be uncomfortable.
  3. Astigmatism correction: In rare cases after laser vision correction it may be necessary to correct astigmatism with special contact lenses.

If you have special medical or optical needs related to contact lenses and are considering laser vision correction, be sure to discuss this with your eye doctor. Your doctor will be able to make specific recommendations for you based on your situation and needs.

Can I give birth after laser vision correction?

Yes, in most cases women who have undergone laser vision correction (e.g. LASIK, PRK, SMILE and other methods) can get pregnant and give birth without problems. Laser vision correction usually does not affect the reproductive function of the body.

However, it is important to consider the following points:

  1. Time after surgery: After laser vision correction, your doctor may recommend that you abstain from pregnancy and birth for a period of time to allow your eyes to fully recover and steadily stabilize your vision. This period may vary depending on the method of correction and your doctor's recommendations.
  2. Hormonal changes during pregnancy: During pregnancy, women are often subject to hormonal changes that can affect vision. This can lead to temporary vision impairment. In some cases, temporary use of glasses or contact lenses may be required if the vision changes are too severe.
  3. Postpartum: After childbirth, vision correction may be necessary because hormonal changes and physical changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth can affect vision.
  4. Breastfeeding: If you are planning to breastfeed, make sure that any medications your doctors may prescribe will not adversely affect your milk or your baby's health. Discuss this with the doctor who performed the vision correction.

In any case, if you have plans to become pregnant after laser vision correction, it is important to discuss this with your ophthalmologist. Your doctor will be able to provide you with additional information and recommendations, and monitor your vision during and after pregnancy to ensure it is in optimal condition.

Can I smoke after laser vision correction?

After laser vision correction it is recommended to refrain from smoking and other bad habits, as they can increase the risk of complications and slow down the healing process. Smoking can negatively affect eye health and increase the risk of developing various ophthalmologic problems, such as dry eyes, as well as increase inflammatory processes that may occur after surgery.

Therefore, if you are planning laser vision correction or have just undergone it, it is better to refrain from smoking and follow your doctor's recommendations on eye care and recovery regimen. This will help minimize the risk of complications and ensure a faster and more successful recovery of vision.

Can I watch TV after laser vision correction?

You can watch TV after laser vision correction, but there are a few recommendations and restrictions to keep in mind:

  1. Rest your eyes: After laser vision correction surgery, it is important to give your eyes time to recover. For the first few days after surgery, it is best to reduce the amount of time spent in front of a TV or computer screen and to avoid excessive eye strain.
  2. Follow your doctor's advice: Your ophthalmologist who performed the surgery will provide you with individualized advice regarding the recovery period. Follow their advice regarding the timing of your return to normal activities, including watching television.
  3. Protective eyewear: Your doctor may have special protective glasses or lenses that you should use when watching TV or reading for the first time after surgery.
  4. Reduce brightness and contrast: To reduce eye strain, reduce the brightness and contrast on your TV screen.
  5. Blink and rest periodically: When watching TV or working on the computer, remember to blink and take breaks to reduce eye strain.
  6. Avoid excessive time in front of a screen: It is important to avoid excessive time in front of the TV or computer to avoid overstressing your eyes and giving them a chance to recover.

In any case, always follow your ophthalmologist's recommendations, as your individual recovery process may vary.

Can I work after laser vision correction?

Yes, most people who have undergone laser vision correction (laser eye surgery) are able to return to work after the procedure. However, there are some important points to consider:

  1. Recovery Time: After laser vision correction, you may need some time to recover your vision and care for your eyes. This usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of procedure and individual patient characteristics.
  2. Restrictions: You may be advised and restricted on activities after laser correction. For example, you may not be allowed to swim in the pool, use eye makeup, exercise vigorously, etc. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.
  3. Adherence to recommendations: It is important to strictly follow all the doctor's recommendations on eye care and medication administration. This will help prevent complications and speed up the healing process.
  4. Computer work: If your job involves prolonged computer use or reading, you may be advised to take breaks and do eye exercises to reduce eye strain.
  5. Let your employer know: If you need to take more time to recover, discuss this with your employer and possibly take sick leave.

In general, most people can return to work after laser vision correction, but it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations and pay attention to your eye health during the recovery period.

Can I fly after laser vision correction?

After laser vision correction, patients can generally fly on commercial flights and engage in other normal travel-related activities once they feel comfortable enough to do so and receive clearance from their ophthalmologist. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

  1. After surgery, it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations for eye care and recovery regimen. This may include the use of medical drops and adherence to physical activity restrictions.
  2. Most ophthalmologists recommend avoiding prolonged eye strain and avoiding dry eyes for the first week after surgery. During this period, excessive eye use and prolonged reading or computer use may be undesirable.
  3. It is also important to keep in mind that dry eyes can be more noticeable in a low humidity atmosphere, which can be common in passenger airplanes. Therefore, if you plan to fly, have moisturizing eye drops on hand and use them as needed.
  4. Before traveling long distances or in conditions that may affect your vision, it's always best to consult your eye doctor and get their recommendations.

In general, most patients who have undergone laser vision correction and follow their doctor's recommendations are able to fly without problems after surgery. However, individual recommendations may vary and it is important to get advice from your doctor before planning to travel.

Is it possible to go blind after laser vision correction?

It is highly unlikely to go blind after laser vision correction, but there is a small risk of serious complications. Doctors performing laser vision correction strictly monitor the safety of the procedure and take all necessary measures to reduce the risk.

The main complications that can occur after laser vision correction include:

  1. Dry eyes: Temporary symptoms of dry and irritated eyes may occur after the procedure. These symptoms usually improve within a few weeks after surgery.
  2. Halo and glare: Some patients may experience temporary effects such as halo and glare around light sources at night. These symptoms also improve with time.
  3. Infections: Although infections are rare, they can be serious. Doctors take precautions to prevent infections and patients are prescribed antibiotics for prophylaxis.
  4. Healing complications: Rarely, problems with corneal healing may occur, which may require additional medical interventions.

It is important to choose an experienced and qualified surgeon to minimize the risks. Before deciding on laser vision correction, you should discuss all possible risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor, as well as follow all recommendations and have regular follow-up examinations after surgery. Most patients successfully undergo laser vision correction and achieve improved vision without serious complications.

Is it okay to cry after laser vision correction?

After laser vision correction, you are generally allowed to cry, but with some restrictions and guidelines:

  1. Avoid friction and pressure on the eyes: Plaxing or rubbing the eyes can damage the wound or affect healing. Therefore, it is important to avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes for the first few weeks after surgery.
  2. Avoid intense crying: If you are experiencing strong emotions that may cause intense crying, try to manage your emotions or avoid intense crying in the first few weeks after surgery.
  3. Use conservative stress relief methods: If you really need to express emotion and cry, try to do so in gentle movements, avoiding pressure on your eyes.
  4. Follow your doctor's recommendations: Before your surgery, your ophthalmologist will provide you with instructions and recommendations regarding eye care after the procedure. Follow their advice regarding recovery time and restrictions.

Be sure to consult your ophthalmologist for any questions you may have about eye care after laser vision correction surgery. He or she will be able to provide you with more detailed instructions based on your specific situation and type of surgery.

When can I wash my face after laser vision correction?

The time when you can wash your face after laser vision correction may vary slightly depending on your ophthalmologist's individual recommendations and the vision correction technique used. However, there are usually a few general recommendations after laser vision correction such as LASIK or PRK:

  1. Immediately after surgery: After surgery, it is important to avoid eye rubbing and manipulation of the eye area. You may be given special glasses or goggles to wear for the first few days after surgery to prevent accidental injury to the eye.
  2. Avoid water in the eyes: For the first few days after surgery, it is important to avoid contact with water in the eyes, including washing. You can use wet wipes or cotton balls to gently clean the skin around your eyes.
  3. Avoid makeup: It is also recommended to refrain from applying makeup around the eyes for a few days after surgery.
  4. Follow your ophthalmologist's instructions: It is important to follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your ophthalmologist. He or she will give you detailed instructions on when you can start washing your face and how to do so without risking damage to your eye.

Be sure to consult with your ophthalmologist and follow his or her instructions, as each case may have its own peculiarities and individual recommendations.

Can I dye my hair after laser vision correction?

You can color your hair after laser vision correction, but there are a few important guidelines to consider:

  1. Give your eyes time to recover: After laser vision correction surgery, it is important to give your eyes time to recover. This may take a few days or weeks, depending on the type of surgery and your individual body. During this period, it is best to avoid excessive eye strain, including spending long periods of time in front of the mirror while coloring your hair.

  2. Eye protection: If you decide to dye your hair, make sure your eyes are protected from contact with the dye and chemicals. You can use safety glasses or goggles to prevent accidental contact with the dye in your eyes.

  3. Caution when using chemical products: When selecting and applying hair dye, pay attention to the choice of chemical products. Avoid using harsh chemical formulations that may irritate or cause allergic reactions.

  4. Consult your doctor before dyeing: It is best to consult your ophthalmologist before dyeing your hair after surgery. He or she will be able to assess the condition of your eyes and make specific recommendations given your situation.

It is important to use caution and take care of your eyes during the recovery period after laser vision correction.

Can I get pregnant after laser vision correction?

Laser vision correction, such as LASIK or PRK, usually does not directly affect your ability to get pregnant. However, if you are planning a pregnancy after surgery, there are some important things to consider:

  1. Wait for your vision to stabilize: It is important to wait for your vision to stabilize after surgery before planning a pregnancy. This usually happens within the first few months after surgery, but can sometimes take longer. Your eye doctor and gynecologist can help you determine when your vision has stabilized.
  2. Medication management: After laser vision correction, you may be prescribed eye drops or other medications. Make sure you understand what medications can be used during pregnancy and tell your doctor about your pregnancy planning to get appropriate guidance.
  3. Health Care: Prepare for pregnancy by ensuring that you live a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating healthy, being physically active, and living a healthy lifestyle in general.
  4. Tips from your gynecologist: Your gynecologist can provide you with more detailed advice and monitoring during your pregnancy to make sure it goes smoothly.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique and recommendations may vary depending on your medical and ophthalmologic history. It is important to consult with your doctors and follow their recommendations for a healthy pregnancy and to preserve your vision.

Can I read after laser vision correction?

Yes, you can usually read after laser vision correction. In fact, one of the main goals of laser vision correction, such as LASIK or PRK, is to improve the quality of vision and eliminate or reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

However, it is important to keep a few things in mind:

  1. Recovery time: After surgery, it may take some time for your vision to recover. Doctors usually recommend limiting activities, including reading and watching TV, for the first few days after surgery. After that, you can begin to gradually return to your normal activities.
  2. Following your doctor's recommendations: It is important to follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your ophthalmologist. He or she will provide you with information about when and how you can begin reading and other nearsighted tasks.
  3. Eye protection: In some cases, you may be given protective glasses or lenses to use when reading or using a computer for the first time after surgery.
  4. Recovery Features: Recovery time may vary depending on the type of surgery, the condition of your eyes and your individual experience. Follow your doctor's recommendations and consult with your doctor for any issues related to reading and other nearsighted tasks after laser vision correction.

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