Why people get laser eye surgery

There are a few main reasons most people consider Laser Eye Surgery. Usually, it’s one of the following:
 
• They can’t wear contact lenses and would prefer not to wear glasses for cosmetic reasons.
• They want to engage in work or leisure activities that cannot be done while wearing glasses or contact lenses.
• They don't want the inconvenience of contact lens wear and the care required.
 
There are a few issues to consider, and all of these would be discussed in detail at your initial Optilase consultation to determine whether or not you’d be a candidate for the surgery.
 
• The refractive error (prescription in glasses) should be stable, and very high or very low prescription holder may not be suitable candidates.
• People with diabetes, uncontrolled rheumatic conditions, diseases of the immune system or a family history of certain eye problems should be careful in proceeding with laser eye surgery. The Ophthalmic Surgeon and Optometrists would review your particular case very carefully to decide if surgery is for you.
• Patients with major abnormalities of the corneal shape, or those with very thin corneas may need different treatment. A detailed consultation will determine
Once you’ve had your initial consultation, the best procedure for you will be explained in detail. Basically, depending on your eyes, different sight problems require different treatments:
• Myopia – the central apex or peak of the cornea must be flattened to reduce the degree of short-sightedness.
• Long-sightedness – the central apex of the cornea needs to be made steeper. This is done by applying the Excimer laser to the edges of the cornea.
• Astigmatism – this occurs when the cornea is more curved in one direction than the other so the laser is applied in a more linear fashion to make the cornea more evenly curved.
 
If the procedure is successful, the cornea is able to focus light rays directly onto the retina at the back of the eye, rather than in front of or behind the retina, and you will be able to see naturally again.