Which Treatments Can Help You See Clearly Without Glasses?
Laser treatments, commonly known as “laser eye surgery”, are highly successful, particularly in the treatment of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism in younger patients. Among the currently used SMILE, LASIK and PRK (No Touch) treatments, the method most suitable for the patient’s eye structure is selected and applied.
Who is generally suitable for laser, ICL and trifocal/EDOF lens treatments?
Laser treatment
Laser treatment is the first choice for patients between the ages of 18 and 40 whose eye structure is suitable for the treatment of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
ICL treatment
For patients who are not suitable for laser treatment or whose prescription is too high for laser treatment, phakic IOL–ICL surgery uses contact lenses that can be placed inside the eye, allowing patients to regain glasses-free vision. ICL treatment is a successful alternative for patients who are not suitable for laser treatment.
Trifocal and EDOF lens treatments
In patients who are not suitable for laser treatment, in cases where the prescription is very high, or in patients over the age of 40 whose near and distance vision have both deteriorated, trifocal and EDOF lens treatments—commonly known as “smart lens treatments”—may improve both visual quality and quality of life. Trifocal lens treatment is an ideal treatment, particularly for patients over the age of 40 whose near and distance vision have deteriorated.
Which examination results and criteria are considered when choosing between these treatments?
Corneal topography, which shows the structure of the cornea, is the most important determining factor. The success rates of the methods vary according to the patient’s eye structure and the degree of myopia or astigmatism. The presence of dry eye also affects which method is selected.
If the patient is sensitive about the eye being touched or has strong reflexes, a method that involves less contact with the eye is preferred.
How do recovery and return-to-daily-life times differ between treatments?
After SMILE and LASIK surgery, the patient can return to daily life the following day. After PRK laser surgery, three days of rest is important.
For lens surgery, it is more appropriate to operate on the two eyes on separate days, and patients can return to daily life the day after the operation.
What should patients pay attention to after surgery?
After all eye operations, it is important to:
- Avoid water coming into contact with the wound area for five days,
- Avoid swimming in the pool or sea for 15 days,
- Avoid eye make-up for 15 days,
- Avoid excessive physical activity for one week.
Could glasses be needed again in later years?
Laser treatments are effective for life. However, changes in eye prescription may be observed over the years in 3% of patients. If the patient is suitable, a second treatment can be performed when necessary.
Dr. Bilal Kavşut has experience in more than 10,000 surgical cases and performs procedures in laser eye treatment, intraocular lenses, cataract surgery and retinal surgery.