LASIK & Refractive Surgery

1. What is LASIK & Refractive Surgery?

LASIK and refractive surgery include procedures designed to correct myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness) and astigmatism by changing how light is focused inside the eye.

Depending on the patient's eyes and prescription, treatment may involve laser reshaping of the cornea or specialised lens-based procedures.

2. When is Refractive Surgery Recommended?

A patient may be considered suitable after a comprehensive eye examination. Important factors include:

• Stable spectacle prescription
• Suitable corneal thickness and shape
• Healthy eyes
• Appropriate refractive error
• Suitable age and lifestyle considerations
• Realistic expectations regarding visual outcomes

Not every patient is suitable for LASIK or laser vision correction.

3. What Types of Refractive Surgery Are Available?

Depending on the patient's eye condition, options may include:

• LASIK
• Femto-LASIK
• SMILE
• PRK
• TransPRK
• Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) for selected patients
• Other lens-based refractive procedures in suitable cases

The ophthalmologist recommends the most appropriate procedure after detailed testing.

4. What Does the Treatment Involve?

The general treatment process includes:

Comprehensive eye examination → Corneal mapping → Refraction assessment → Suitability evaluation → Procedure selection → Refractive surgery → Postoperative monitoring → Follow-up

Most laser procedures are performed using numbing eye drops and do not require general anaesthesia.

5. What Tests Are Performed Before Surgery?

Preoperative assessment may include:

• Detailed vision and refraction testing
• Corneal topography or tomography
• Corneal thickness measurement
• Eye pressure measurement
• Tear-film assessment
• Pupil assessment
• Retinal examination when required

These tests help determine the safest and most suitable procedure.

6. How Long Does the Procedure and Recovery Take?

The actual laser treatment usually takes only a few minutes per eye, although the total clinic visit is longer.

Recovery depends on the procedure:

• LASIK/Femto-LASIK: functional vision often improves relatively quickly
• SMILE: recovery is generally relatively quick
• PRK/TransPRK: visual recovery may take longer
• ICL: recovery and follow-up requirements differ from laser procedures

The ophthalmologist provides individual guidance regarding work, driving and other activities.

7. What Are the Expected Benefits and Outcomes?

Successful refractive surgery may help:

• Reduce dependence on glasses
• Reduce dependence on contact lenses
• Improve uncorrected vision
• Support an active lifestyle

Results vary according to the patient's prescription, eye condition and procedure performed.

8. What Are the Risks or Considerations?

Potential risks or side effects may include:

• Temporary dry eyes
• Glare or halos around lights
• Fluctuating vision during recovery
• Under-correction or over-correction
• Need for enhancement treatment
• Infection or inflammation
• Rare complications affecting vision

A detailed ophthalmological examination is essential before surgery.

9. Why Consider LASIK & Refractive Surgery in India?

India has specialised ophthalmology centres offering:

• Advanced corneal imaging
• Modern LASIK and Femto-LASIK technology
• SMILE and surface-laser procedures
• Lens-based refractive correction for suitable patients
• Experienced refractive surgeons
• Comprehensive postoperative follow-up

10. How Can Medavelle Help and What Should the Patient Do Next?

Medavelle can assist with:

Eye-report review → Ophthalmologist coordination → Hospital selection → Procedure planning → Cost estimation → International patient arrangements.

Next step: Share latest eye prescription & ophthalmology reports → Comprehensive eye evaluation → Suitability assessment → Procedure selection → Refractive surgery → Follow-up.