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Arabic PRK, LASIK, and FEMTO LASIK are refractive surgeries that reshape the surface of the cornea to enable patients to see without glasses or reduce their dependence on them. On the other hand, ICL involves inserting a customized foldable lens in front of the natural clear lens inside the eye.
Lasik Refractive surgery (LASIK/SMILE/ICL) is a type of refractive surgery
What is LASIK?
LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a type of refractive surgery used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It involves using a laser to reshape the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, so that light entering the eye is properly focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision. During the procedure, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea, which is then lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is then replaced, and the eye is allowed to heal naturally without the need for stitches. LASIK is a common and popular vision correction procedure, known for its high success rate and relatively short recovery time.
What is PRK?
PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of refractive surgery that is used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Like LASIK, PRK involves using a laser to reshape the cornea, but the main difference between the two procedures is how the laser is applied.
In PRK, the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is removed completely before the laser is applied to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. This allows the laser to access the corneal tissue directly, without needing to create a flap. Once the laser treatment is completed, a contact lens is placed over the cornea to protect it while the epithelium regenerates. Over time, the new epithelium grows back, and the cornea heals, resulting in clearer vision.
PRK is an older technique compared to LASIK and may have a slightly longer recovery time. However, it can be a suitable option for people who are not good candidates for LASIK, such as those with thinner corneas or other corneal irregularities.
What is ICL?
ICL stands for Implantable Collamer Lens. It is a type of refractive surgery used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Unlike LASIK and PRK, which reshape the cornea to correct vision, ICL involves implanting a small, flexible lens inside the eye to correct the way light enters the eye. The lens is made of a biocompatible material that is designed to be permanent and can be customized to fit the individual’s eye shape and vision needs.
During the procedure, a small incision is made in the cornea, and the lens is inserted through the incision and placed in front of the natural clear lens inside the eye. The procedure is generally quick and painless, and the patient can usually go home the same day.
ICL is a good option for people who are not suitable candidates for LASIK or PRK, such as those with thin corneas or very high refractive errors. It is also reversible, which means the lens can be removed or replaced if necessary.
When should I stop wearing contact lenses before my refractive surgery check-up?
Contact lenses can temporarily alter the shape of your cornea, so it is recommended to stop wearing them before the LASIK check-up to allow your cornea to return to its natural shape. Soft contact lenses should be discontinued for at least one week, while RGP lenses should be discontinued for at least six weeks before the check-up.
When can I return to work after undergoing LASIK, PRK, or ICL surgery?
On the day of the surgery, you may experience some discomfort, so it is best to take the day off. You may typically return to work the day after your post-operative check-up. For PRK, it is generally recommended to take four to five days of rest. During the first week after the surgery, there may be some restrictions, such as no head baths or strenuous exercise. Swimming and contact sports are restricted for 2-3 months after surgery. Wearing make-up is also restricted for a month after the surgery.
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