Vision Correction Surgery

Top Eye Surgeries in India - LASIK, Cataract and Advanced Eye Treatments

Refractive eye surgery can correct common vision problems. This short explains the main types of procedures, including LASIK, and who may be a suitable candidate for treatment.

What is refractive eye surgery?

These procedures reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to change how light is focused onto the retina.

• Common conditions. It is used to correct near-sightedness (myopia), far-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
• The goal. The aim is to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses for most daily activities.
• Several techniques. There are different types of surgery, including laser-based procedures and lens-based procedures.
• A day procedure. Surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, and you can go home the same day.

Common types of surgery

The best procedure for you depends on your specific vision problem, eye health, and the shape and thickness of your cornea.

• LASIK. This is a very common type. A surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea and uses a laser to reshape the tissue underneath.
• SMILE. A less invasive laser procedure that reshapes the cornea through a very small incision, without creating a flap.
• PRK/LASEK. In these procedures, the cornea's outer layer is removed or moved aside before a laser reshapes the surface. The layer then heals back.
• Implantable lenses (ICL). For some people, especially those with very high prescriptions, a special lens can be implanted in the eye to correct vision.

Are you a suitable candidate?

A detailed eye examination is needed to determine if surgery is right for you.

• Stable prescription. Your glasses or contact lens prescription should be stable for at least one year before surgery.
• Good eye health. You should be free from eye diseases like severe dry eye, glaucoma, or cataracts.
• General health. Certain medical conditions, such as some autoimmune diseases, may make surgery unsuitable.
• Realistic expectations. It is important to understand the potential benefits and risks. You may still need reading glasses as you get older due to natural ageing.

The suitability of any vision correction surgery can only be determined by a specialist. An ophthalmologist will need to review your case, including a full eye examination and your medical history, to recommend the best course of action.