A Step by Step guide to Femto-LASIK
Numbing the Eye
Reshaping the Cornea
Creating the Flap
Before the LASIK procedure gets underway, eye drops are used to numb the eye. These take seconds to start working and last for about ten to 15 minutes.
Creating the Flap
Reshaping the Cornea
Creating the Flap
After the eye is numb, it needs to be immobilized for the surgery. This is done with a contact glass or suction ring which is gently placed on the eye. Once the eye is held stationary, the doctor will slice a thin layer of tissue from the top of the eye with a laser.
Reshaping the Cornea
Reshaping the Cornea
Reshaping the Cornea
After the flap creation, the patient will be moved to the excimer laser for the next step of the procedure. Then the doctor will open the top layer of the eye – it is hinged back like an open book cover to expose the cornea.
Sculpting the Cornea
Sculpting the Cornea
Reshaping the Cornea
The laser will sculpt the tissue in the cornea to correct the refractive error. Sounds and a smell may be perceived, depending on the laser. Excimer lasers are equipped with an eye tracking system to follow and to compensate for eye movement during surgery.
Adhering the Flap
Sculpting the Cornea
Adhering the Flap
The surgeon will return the flap to its original position. Within hours, the flap sticks to the underlying tissue without stiches.
Recovery
Rest for a quick and easy recovery
After surgery, it is recommended to:
- Not rub the operated eye, rest and not overexert yourself
- Wear protective glasses the day after surgery to prevent accidentally moving the flap by rubbing the eye
- Wear a patch while sleeping for a week to avoid moving the flap
- Use eye drops for some days following the surgery to prevent infection and alleviate dryness
- Avoid strenuous contact sports for at least two weeks
The flap should be stable within a matter of days but vision may fluctuate for several more months after the surgery. Doctors typically require a follow-up exam the day after and one a month after surgery.
FAQ
Benefits
Experience
LASIK has been the standard treatment for over 20 years. Dr Arif Adenwala is very experienced with this procedure.
Quick recovery
Typically, vision becomes clearer within a couple hours after surgery and gradually stabilizes over the following weeks.