Eye health is one of the most crucial factors determining people’s quality of life. In daily life, wearing glasses or contact lenses can cause both practical and aesthetic difficulties for individuals with visual impairments. At work, in sports activities, or in social life, dependency on glasses can become a limiting factor that restricts one’s freedom. At this point, eye laser surgery comes into play, applied with the goal of permanently correcting visual defects. But is eye laser surgery truly a definitive solution?
To answer this question, both the medical dimension and the long-term results need to be evaluated. According to expert opinions, eye laser surgery offers highly effective and lasting outcomes for many patients. However, since each person’s eye structure is unique, the results may vary from individual to individual. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that laser surgery provides high success rates, but the expression “definitive solution” carries different meanings for different patients.
Permanently Correcting Visual Defects
The main goal of eye laser surgery is to eliminate refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. With laser application, the cornea is reshaped, ensuring that light focuses correctly on the retina.
For many patients, wearing glasses or lenses can be both financially burdensome and inconvenient in terms of comfort. Through laser surgery, it is possible to be freed from this dependency.
Living without glasses not only enhances visual quality but also boosts confidence in social life. Op. Dr. Diclehan points out that in the majority of patients, a significant improvement in quality of life is observed following the operation.
Historical Development
Eye laser surgeries, known as refractive surgery, have been performed since the 1980s. From the first excimer laser applications to today’s femtosecond and SMILE technologies, a significant evolution has taken place.
Today, millions of people worldwide have undergone eye laser surgery. Reported success rates exceed 95%.
Myopia
In myopic patients, distant objects appear blurry. Laser surgery reshapes the cornea, allowing light to focus directly on the retina.
Hyperopic individuals experience greater difficulty with near vision. Laser surgery corrects this by increasing the curvature of the cornea.
Astigmatism arises from irregular curvature of the corneal surface. Laser treatment corrects this irregularity, producing a clearer vision.
The age-related problem of difficulty seeing up close (presbyopia) is an area where laser surgery has limited application. Alternative methods are preferred in such cases.
LASIK
One of the most common methods, LASIK involves creating a thin corneal flap, applying the laser, and repositioning the flap. The recovery period is short.
In PRK, the corneal surface is thinned. This method is often chosen for patients with thin corneas. The recovery period is longer compared to LASIK.
An advanced version of PRK, LASEK offers a slightly shorter recovery period and more comfort.
A modern technique performed with minimal incision. Since corneal integrity is better preserved, the risk of complications is reduced.
With wavefront technology, laser surgeries can be customized for each individual. This approach corrects optical defects in fine detail, leading to more successful results.
Eye Examinations
Before surgery, a comprehensive eye examination is performed. Corneal thickness, tear film quality, retinal health, and stability of refractive error are carefully assessed.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes the importance of understanding patient expectations before surgery. Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment after the operation.
Patients are advised to stop wearing contact lenses before surgery, maintain eye hygiene, and avoid makeup on the day of the procedure.
Local Anesthesia
Anesthetic drops are applied to the eyes. Patients generally feel no pain during the procedure.
Using the laser device, the cornea is reshaped. The procedure typically lasts 10–15 minutes for both eyes combined.
Most patients tolerate the procedure well. Apart from a mild sense of pressure, no significant discomfort is reported.
Immediate Effects
Burning, stinging, tearing, and light sensitivity may occur within the first few hours. These effects usually subside within 24 hours.
In LASIK, vision clarity improves within a few days. In PRK and LASEK, recovery may take longer.
Scheduled follow-ups on the first day, first week, first month, and sixth month are essential to ensure successful outcomes.
Temporary dry eyes, glare, and reduced night vision may occur.
Rarely, corneal weakening (ectasia), the need for repeat surgery, or changes in vision prescription over time may develop.
Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses that laser surgery is not suitable for every patient. It is contraindicated in individuals with weak corneal structures or retinal diseases.
Most patients enjoy glasses-free living for many years. However, age-related conditions such as presbyopia or cataracts may develop independently of laser surgery. Regular eye check-ups are vital to monitor these processes.
Eye laser surgery is one of the most successful and reliable surgical methods of modern medicine. However, the concept of a “definitive solution” varies depending on each individual’s eye structure, age, and lifestyle. With proper patient selection, the right method choice, and application by an experienced specialist, laser operations can significantly enhance quality of life.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that eye laser surgery is not a miracle but, in suitable patients, offers permanent clarity that may last a lifetime.
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