Types of laser vision correction. There is no better treatment! Laser vision correction: what is it, varieties. What tests and examinations do you need to undergo for successful vision correction?

To date, there are more than 20 methods for correcting myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. However, the most effective ophthalmologists around the world recognize the method of excimer laser vision correction.

Such operations are performed using the most modern and advanced LASIK (LASIK, LASIK) and EPI-LASIK technologies, which preserve the layered structure of the cornea, do not leave sutures and allow you to get excellent vision painlessly the very next day after the operation. Correction can be carried out in one day on two eyes. If there are indications, the correction can be carried out using traditional PRK technology.

PRK

1) Anesthetic drops are instilled into the patient's eyes (anesthesia is not used). After the anesthesia has worked, the eyelids are opened with an eyelid speculum. The patient is asked to look at a luminous dot in the device to center the position of the eye. If necessary, the eye is fixed with a vacuum ring. Marking is applied to the cornea.

2) From the area that will be affected by laser radiation, the epithelium is removed with a laser or a surgical instrument.

3) With the help of an excimer laser, a new surface of the cornea is formed, the course of laser correction is controlled by an ophthalmologist. After completion, the cornea is washed with a special solution, then anti-inflammatory drops and antibiotics are instilled. A bandage is applied over the eye to protect it from external influences.

During PRK vision correction, the laser changes the outer layers of the cornea. As a result, the surface layer - the epithelium and the Bowman's membrane on which it is located - is damaged, leaving an open wound surface, which is then gradually covered by the epithelium. The recovery process lasts 3-4 days, accompanied by discomfort, contact lenses are used to relieve pain.

Lasik

1) The first stage completely coincides with the PRK methodology

2) With the help of a microkeratome (a special tool), the upper layer of the cornea is separated, it is lifted and folded back. Then the excimer laser begins to work, forming a new shape of the cornea.

After the laser exposure is completed, the cornea is washed with a special solution. The surface layer falls into place and serves as a kind of "natural bandage". Due to the characteristics of this avascular layer of tissue, it is well fixed after a few minutes, so suturing is not required. The patient is instilled with anti-inflammatory drops and antibiotics.

Unpleasant sensations during the recovery period are minimal. As a rule, after a few hours, a person already acquires the ability to see much better than before vision correction. Vision is finally restored within 3-5 days, depending on the individual characteristics of the eye.

EPI-LASIK

EPI-LASIK is the most modern vision correction technique that has retained all the advantages of the Lasik method - a quick restoration of vision with minimal pain. EPI-LASIK is a superficial corneal modeling procedure along with PRK and Lasik.

EPI-LASIK is considered the most appropriate technique for patients with low levels of myopia, thin corneas, and in all cases where the formation of an epithelial flap may create certain problems.

Laser exposure during surgery is carried out on the surface of the cornea after removal of the epithelium (this is its similarity with PRK and LASIK). The ophthalmic surgeon does not use a microkeratome with a blade, but uses a special epikeratome to exfoliate and separate the epithelial flap. Due to the preservation of the viability of the epithelial flap, the healing process is more efficient, thanks to this, patients feel much better than after PRK and LASIK procedures. Also, the Epi-LASIK method does not use an alcohol solution, this is its difference from the LASIK operation, and more than 80% of epithelial cells remain viable. After returning to the site of the epithelial flap, these cells are distributed throughout the cornea, creating a very even surface and a favorable environment for further restoration of epithelial cells.

today, medical centers and clinics in 45 countries work with laser techniques; over the past 10 years, about 5 million vision corrections have been carried out in the world using the Lasik method; in the USA and Japan, the procedure for restoring vision with the help of laser vision correction has long gone beyond specialized clinics; small laser correction centers can be seen on the territories of large shopping and entertainment complexes, next to dental and beauty parlors and beauty salons; The US government, as part of the National Program for the Improvement of the Armed Forces, has been paying for laser vision correction for military personnel of all ranks and branches of service for several years.

Contraindications

Age less than 18 and more than 45 years. This is justified by physiological reasons: before the age of 18, the eyeball, and indeed the entire human body, is not yet fully formed, and vision may change;

The period of pregnancy and feeding;

Diabetes mellitus, rheumatism, thyroid disease and a number of other diseases;

Some types of eye diseases (dystrophy or degeneration of the cornea, glaucoma, iridocyclitis, etc.)

The final decision on the possibility of laser vision correction is made by the doctor after the diagnosis.

Any type of laser vision correction begins with a comprehensive diagnosis of vision, during which visual acuity is checked, the type and degree of visual impairment are determined, intraocular pressure, curvature, thickness and topography of the cornea are measured. All these and other indicators make it possible to diagnose diseases of the cornea, which may be contraindications for LCH.

Before the diagnosis, it is necessary not to wear contact lenses: soft - 7 days, hard - 14 days.

Some misconceptions

1. It will hurt.

Laser vision correction is an effective and painless method of vision correction. Modern technologies have overcome the “pain barrier” and make it possible to carry out the laser correction procedure under local drip anesthesia, which is more easily tolerated by patients of different ages. In addition, it does not put a strain on the heart, blood vessels and other organs.

2. Vision will take a long time to recover.

Improving the patient's vision begins within 1.5-2 hours after the correction, and within a week all the processes of visual functions are normalized.

3. Vision will become even worse.

As world practice data show, the probability of side effects after laser correction is reduced to tenths of a percent, thanks to a thorough diagnostic examination before correction and the perfection of modern laser systems.

4. Over time, the result of laser correction will deteriorate.

In wide practice, laser correction has been used since 1985. Long-term observations of patients have shown that laser correction does not cause any disturbances in the internal structures of the eye, since the depth of exposure is strictly limited. For the entire period of application of laser correction, cases of visual impairment or loss due to laser exposure have not been recorded.

5. After laser vision correction, it will not be possible to live a full life

Laser vision correction is the only way to restore vision for those who experience maximum stress: test pilots, rescuers, climbers, stuntmen, athletes, after the operation there are no restrictions on physical and visual stress.

7. There will be not the result that was promised.

It is possible to predict what vision will be like after laser correction immediately after the diagnosis. Laser correction is the only method that allows you to achieve the predicted result, which is one of its main advantages compared to other methods.

Visual acuity significantly affects the quality of life of a modern person. After all, the load on the eyes has increased several times compared to even those that were 100 years ago. Discomfort, headache, pain in the eyes, a gritty feeling, and corneal redness are all symptoms of visual impairment. But also vision problems are vague fuzzy contours of objects, a change in their color, the inability to read text even in large print. All this affects the quality of human life, and often leads to the inability to perform certain actions. In such cases, vision correction is applied.

Types of vision correction

The most common type of vision correction today will be spectacles. Depending on the type of disorder (farsightedness, myopia or astigmatism), the ophthalmologist selects glasses with the help of lenses.

With farsightedness, they must be worn constantly. Myopia usually requires the use of glasses only when working near (reading, watching TV, working at a computer). More difficult will be the selection of glasses for astigmatism.

Today, the industry produces a wide range of corrective glasses, which allows you to choose the right ones for almost any violation of refraction. At the same time, it is possible to choose a copy that will correspond to any preferences of the patient.

Another important advantage of glasses will be the practical absence of contraindications for wearing them.

For those who for some reason do not want to wear glasses, you can choose lenses. The range of lenses is not much inferior to the variety of glasses. They can be soft or hard, for permanent or daytime wear.

However, wearing lenses will not work for those who have an individual intolerance to them, as well as for persons under 18 years of age.

In the last 20 years, laser eye treatment or laser refraction correction has become increasingly popular.

This high-tech surgical method allows you to get rid of visual impairment and not wear glasses.

Indications and contraindications for laser vision correction

Laser eye treatment is a relatively new type of refraction correction. Today, with the help of a laser, millions of operations are performed all over the world; according to some estimates, more than 1.5 million of them have been performed in Russia.

The essence of the technique is in the correction of refraction using notches on the cornea. Science has not yet learned how to change the length of the eye, so by correcting the curvature of the cornea, refraction changes. This allows you to get an image on the retina and thus correct the problem of visual acuity. With the help of a laser, any type of violation can be corrected: farsightedness, myopia, as well as astigmatism.

But you need to make a reservation with this method, only refraction is corrected, but the disease itself is not treated. What are the pros and cons of laser vision correction, we will tell further.

So, among the advantages will be:

no need to carry out the correction several times. One procedure is enough to correct; painlessness and speed of the operation; the absence of lifestyle restrictions after its implementation (this operation is carried out for test pilots and athletes); wide correction range (up to + 6 for myopia, -15 for hyperopia and +/- 0.5 - 5 for astigmatism); improving the patient's quality of life.

However, with all the positive aspects, there are also disadvantages of laser vision correction.

It is not performed on patients under 18 years of age. The eye develops before this age, and the procedure may not give the desired results. Do not do it after 45 years. When myopia (senile myopia) occurs, changes occur in the eye that cannot be stopped. The period of pregnancy and lactation is also classified as a contraindication. During this period, the hormonal background will differ from the usual, which will affect the results of healing. Laser correction is not indicated for those who have general diseases in acute and subacute form. This is especially true of diabetes mellitus, severe degrees of hypertension, and infectious diseases. Do not carry out this procedure for oncological diseases in the eye area.

Types of laser vision correction

Laser correction is classified as a complex, high-tech operation and is the most expensive procedure in ophthalmology. When it is carried out, several factors are important at once, among which are: the professionalism of the surgeon, the quality of the equipment and the patient's health status.

Today, several methods are used, the implementation of which depends on the quality of the equipment. Any vision correction surgery with LASIK equipment takes place in 3 stages.

Formation from the upper layer of the cornea and abduction towards the flap. It is usually formed using a microkeratome (a very thin surgical knife) or a special femto laser beam. Evaporation using an excimer laser of sections of the cornea, which changes its shape (usually according to individual parameters). Return to the site of the flap.

Preparation for laser vision correction requires a special examination, since this procedure is classified as a surgical operation.

Among the positive aspects will be that it is carried out on an outpatient basis, the patient leaves the clinic for home in a few hours. For the procedure, local anesthesia (instillation into the eye) is sufficient. The duration of the entire operation is from 10 to 25 minutes, the exposure time of the laser is 20-40 seconds.

Ophthalmic clinics use several techniques. So, the most commonly used will be the following.

This is a standard technique, it has been widely used throughout the world. Here, with the help of a microkeratome, a flap is formed and retracted, and then the cornea is corrected with an excimer laser. After correction, the flap is returned to its place. During the operation, the individual characteristics of the patient's cornea are not taken into account, and a standard correction is carried out according to the specified parameters for everyone.

Vision improves within 1-2 hours after surgery. The healing process takes several hours. It takes 2-3 weeks for a full recovery (usually so many drops are dripped), but you can go to work the very next day.

SUPER LASIK
When using this technique, the parameters of corneal correction are set individually. Special equipment calculates them based on the characteristics of a particular patient. Today, this technique gives better results compared to LASIK. It is used wherever there is appropriate equipment.

FEMTO-LASIK
During this operation, not a microkeratome is used, but a femto-laser (which gave the name to the technique). However, corneal correction is carried out according to the standard scheme.

FEMTO-SUPER-LASIK
When using this technique, all the advantages of the previous techniques will be used. A femto-ray is used to form a flap, and corneal correction will be carried out according to individual parameters.

PRESBY-LASIK
This technique is used for patients after 40 years. With its help, a correction is carried out, which should allow you to see well at different distances (near and far).

EPI-LASIK
This technique is rarely used, it is difficult to carry out and does not always give the desired result. It is used for thin corneas.

PRK
This procedure is carried out on the LASEK apparatus. It originated at about the same time as LASIK, but differs in a fundamentally different approach.

With the help of a laser beam, the upper layer of the cornea is corrected. Usually its program is individual and does not affect the internal structures of the eye. It is also performed under local anesthesia and takes up to 20 minutes. After correction, a special soft lens is put on the cornea, and a bandage is applied on top. The period of primary recovery (before removing the bandage and lenses) up to 3 days. It takes 3 to 4 weeks for complete healing.

This method is more painful and traumatic. Discomfort will be felt for several days, at this time there may also be photophobia, pain in the eye.

Most often, the PRK technique is used for thin (thinned) or too bulging corneas, when the use of LASIK techniques is not indicated.

Each of the described methods will differ in price. The most expensive will be the correction according to the FEMTO-SUPER-LASIK method, and the most budgetary PRK.

The result of the operation largely depends on what equipment and how laser vision correction is performed.

After the procedure, you should not drive. Take a taxi or use the help of loved ones. Vision may fluctuate. You should not use public transport immediately after the correction - you can bring the infection. Do not leave the clinic until you have had a slit lamp examination by a doctor. After the operation, profuse lacrimation is usually observed. Do not rub your eyes, use a soft tissue, but do not touch your eyes. Be sure to follow all the doctor's instructions. For the first 2-3 weeks after the operation, refrain from visiting the pool, sauna, swimming in open water. Do not use eye makeup during the period of instillation of drops (but not less than 1 week).

Consequences of the laser vision correction procedure

Complications after vision correction occur infrequently, and they do not depend on what equipment is used for laser vision correction, but they are possible. So, they can be divided into several groups.

Complications associated with refractive error (hypercorrection, hypocorrection, astigmatism) arise as a result of the individual characteristics of the patient. With overcorrection, vision will improve near, but will be poor at a distance. This complication corrects itself, after a while (points may be shown for this period).

With hypocorrection, the desired result will not be achieved. In difficult cases, re-adjustment is carried out. But usually it is not large.

Very rarely, induced astigmatism can be observed. It is corrected by additional correction.

Dry eye syndrome (sensation of dryness and sand in the eye). Occurs as a reaction of the eye to the invasion. Usually goes away in 2-3 weeks. In difficult cases, the closure of the lacrimal ducts is used, which will allow the tear fluid to wet the cornea more effectively.

Problems with the flap (flap folds, displacement, falling off). These defects are eliminated with repeated correction and, as a rule, do not reduce vision. However, with the most dangerous problems (falling away), they can significantly reduce visual acuity.

Regression. This is a return to the initial, level of vision (preoperative). It is more common in patients with high rates of impairment.

Lights and halos. They arise as a residual reaction to a change in refraction (in myopic people they can intensify) in the vast majority of cases they disappear after 3 months. In some cases, up to 6 are saved. If this does not happen, reading glasses may be prescribed.

Corneal erosions occur as a result of scratches on the cornea during surgery. Treated within 1-2 weeks. In rare cases, they can lead to serious consequences (scars on the cornea and blurred vision).

Infection. It may occur as a consequence of the operation or as a result of non-compliance with the prescribed rules of conduct. It is treated with corticosteroids and antibacterial drops (they are also attributed as a prophylaxis).

In general, complications after laser correction occur, according to statistics, in less than 1% of operated patients. And the correspondence of real results to the predicted ones is 96-98%. We can say that laser correction is a convenient and completely safe way to solve vision problems, although it is expensive.

Heal and be healthy!

Photo: Laser vision correction

Laser vision correction is the most modern and effective method for correcting defects such as myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism or farsightedness. Laser eye surgery is a real breakthrough in ophthalmology, the essence of which is the immediate and painless correction of eye refraction. The application of the procedure allows you to change the shape of the cornea so that the image of objects is focused on the retina. Modern technique makes it possible to restore good vision and save the patient from wearing glasses or contact lenses.

Photo: Laser vision correction - types of surgery

There are several basic laser vision correction methods. These include:

FRK(photorefractive keratectomy) is the oldest method of correction, which is mainly used at the initial stage of myopia (nearsightedness). Its essence lies in the removal of the corneal epithelium and the subsequent evaporation of its deep layers (stroma and Bowman's membrane). The rehabilitation period after the operation takes 4-5 days. LASEK(subepithelial keratomileusis) - this method is indicated when the patient has a too thin cornea. The essence of the procedure is the formation of a special valve from the Bowman's membrane, epithelium and stroma. This valve is secured and fixed with a temporary contact lens. The recovery period takes a short time. LASIK(laser keratomileusis) is a more modern and gentle method of laser exposure. The operation is performed in two stages: on the first stage, the laser beam cuts off the upper layer of the cornea. On the second, defects are eliminated in its deep layers and the cut section is returned to its place. The operation allows you to cope with a high degree of myopia, farsightedness and correct the manifestations of astigmatism. The recovery process after the intervention is fast and almost without complications.

In turn, the method of laser keratomileusis (LASIK ) combines several modifications that differ from each other in some nuances:

Photo: laser keratomileusis method (LASIK) Super LASIK- unlike the basic technique, it is performed exclusively according to the individual parameters of the patient, using special high-precision equipment, therefore it gives the best results. Currently, this method is used in all modern vision correction centers, and has practically replaced the LASIK technique. Femto Super LASIK- the method is in many ways similar to the Super LASIK procedure. The only difference is that the cornea is cut not with a microkerator, but with a unique femtolaser. Presby LASIK– this procedure is performed taking into account age-related changes in vision and is recommended for use in patients over 40 years of age.

All of the above methods have their own characteristics, pros and cons. The choice of method of exposure is carried out by the doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. According to specialists and patients, the best laser vision correction is carried out using the FRK and LASIK methods.

Who is shown?

Photo: Who is shown laser vision correction

myopia (nearsightedness) ranging from -1 to -13 diopters; hypermetropia (farsightedness) with indications from + 1 to + 6 diopters; astigmatism (from +/-1 to +/- 4 diopters).

In recent years, more and more patients have resorted to laser vision correction. Why is this technique so popular? Many patients believe that glasses spoil their appearance and do not want to wear them. Vision correction with contact lenses is also not an ideal solution to the problem, since some patients simply cannot get used to them.

Lenses often cause allergic reactions and provoke individual intolerance in direct contact with the surface of the eye. Therefore, vision correction with a laser seems to be the ideal solution to deal with the problem in a short time. Before the operation, the patient must undergo a full examination, only based on its results, the ophthalmologist decides whether it is possible to do laser vision correction.

Contraindications

Photo: cataract

There is a list of conditions under which laser vision correction is prohibited. These include:

progressive myopia; cataract; glaucoma; iridocyclitis; previous operations on the retina; inflammatory diseases of the organs of vision; dystrophic changes in the cornea; the period of pregnancy and breastfeeding; systemic diseases; severe diabetes mellitus; age up to 18 years; immunodeficiency states.

This is not a complete list of contraindications. An ophthalmologist will help clarify possible restrictions after a comprehensive examination. Many experts advise a new effective drug - Oko-plus eye drops.

How is the operation going?

Photo: How is the operation of laser vision correction

The operation of laser vision correction requires preliminary preparation. The patient undergoes a comprehensive examination, passes the necessary tests and, in the absence of contraindications, receives a referral for surgery. A week before the upcoming intervention, you should stop wearing contact lenses, 48 hours before the procedure - exclude alcohol.

Before the start of the operation, an anesthetic is instilled into the patient's eye, they wait a certain time, and then they are invited to the operating table. The area around the eyes is treated with an antiseptic solution. Next, an expander is inserted into the eye, which prevents involuntary blinking. After that, the specialist can begin the procedure. Let us consider in more detail how laser vision correction is performed using different techniques.

Photo: PRK method

PRK method. During the operation, a wide beam of an excimer laser is exposed to the cornea of the eye. According to a pre-calculated individual program, the laser beam flattens the corneal epithelium through the process of cold evaporation (ablation) and thus models a new surface.

Laser vision correction lasts only a few minutes, all this time the patient must lie still and look at one point. Upon completion of the procedure, drops with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action are instilled into the eyes and closed with a bandage.

If the treatment is carried out in a hospital, laser vision correction is carried out immediately in both eyes. After the procedure, the patient is under the supervision of doctors for 3-4 days. If the operation is performed on an outpatient basis, then first an adjustment is made on one eye, and after five days on the other.

Immediately after the intervention, discomfort in the operated eyes, sensation of a foreign body, photophobia are possible. These symptoms go away after a few hours. The recovery period takes 3-4 days, during this time the patient may feel pain, so it is recommended to use painkillers.

After removing the bandage, visual acuity is gradually restored and the patient can soon return to normal life. In the future, for 2 months, it is necessary to instill anti-inflammatory drops in the eyes.

Photo: LASIK method

LASIK method. During the operation, using a special device (microkeratome), a flap is cut out from the superficial layers of the cornea to provide access to deeper layers. All parameters are pre-set in a computer program that ensures the operation of the device.

Next, the flap is turned to the side, and the laser beam evaporates the corneal tissue, changing their curvature. At the end of exposure to the laser beam, the flap is placed in its original place and fixed without suturing due to the adhesive properties of corneal collagen. Upon completion of the procedure, a soft contact lens is put on the eye, which performs the function of protecting the cornea. They take it off after a few days.

The patient spends the first day after the operation in the hospital. If no complications arise, he is sent home the next day. Vision begins to recover within a few hours after the procedure and reaches its maximum level in the next 2 weeks. During the recovery period, the patient must follow all medical recommendations and use drops with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects for 2-3 weeks.

After the operation, the patient will be instructed in detail what can and cannot be done after laser vision correction. The final result of the correction depends on how carefully all recommendations are followed. In the future, the patient should be under the supervision of a specialist and appear for a scheduled examination by an ophthalmologist 2 weeks, 3 and 6 months after the operation.

Recovery period - what after the operation?

Photo: Rehabilitation period

Are there any restrictions after laser vision correction? Undoubtedly, after the intervention, the patient must comply with a number of requirements necessary for a quick, full recovery and prevention of possible complications.

In the first days after the operation, you should not touch your eyes or rub your eyelids. This can lead to displacement of the corneal flap. It is not recommended to wash your face for several days after the intervention. After the PRK procedure, it is allowed to wash your face after 3-4 days, when the blindfold is removed from the eyes. After 1 week, you can use cosmetics. After 2 weeks you can watch TV and drive a car. After the LASIK procedure, you should not touch your eyes, rub them, use cosmetics, hairspray or sprays for 2 weeks. Within 3 months after laser vision correction, it is not recommended to visit the pool, bath or sauna. All patients undergoing surgery should exclude any factors contributing to increased intraocular pressure and corneal edema. It is necessary to avoid prolonged work at the computer and other high visual loads, to exclude hard physical labor, housework associated with torso tilt (washing floors, washing, etc.). For several months after the operation, it is forbidden to engage in contact sports. During the recovery period, do not drink large amounts of fluid. Alcohol intake is strictly prohibited. Possible Complications

Like any intervention, laser vision correction can sometimes lead to unwanted complications. This is due to inadequate preoperative preparation or inaccurately calculated parameters. If a patient complains of poor vision after laser correction, this may be a manifestation of a condition such as amblyopia (an uncorrectable decrease in visual acuity). In addition, some complications may occur during the operation, immediately after it, or in the late postoperative period. Here are the possible complications:

Photo: the appearance of a halo around light sources

Keratoconus (protrusion of the eyeball). May appear several years after surgery.

Dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Symptoms of hyper- or hypo-correction. Keratitis, conjunctivitis. Fluctuations in visual acuity, photophobia, the appearance of a halo around light sources; Displacement of the treatment area of the cornea and the appearance of folds on the flap; Hemorrhages in the retina and vitreous body; Retinal degeneration or retinal detachment.

If a number of complications, such as mild corneal clouding, dry eye or bacterial keratitis can be eliminated with medication, then some undesirable consequences of the operation will require additional surgical intervention. These include: incomplete correction (when visual acuity is not fully restored), insufficient removal of the epithelium or severe clouding of the cornea.

What will happen to the eyes in 10 years?

Photo: What will happen to the eyes in 10 years

A patient who decides on laser vision correction should understand that this method only fights the consequences, but does not affect the causes of the disease. Therefore, over time, the effect of laser “polishing” may weaken, and the patient will again have to return to the previous methods of correction, that is, to glasses or contact lenses.

The eyeball is also subject to natural aging. With age, the condition of the retina can change even after a well-performed operation. Age-related problems or hormonal imbalances (for example, during pregnancy or during menopause) can cause serious problems with the cornea. It is possible that another intervention will be needed and the corrective procedure will have to be repeated. Therefore, before deciding on a laser correction, you need to weigh the pros and cons.

Advantages of laser vision correction

Photo: Advantages of laser vision correction safety and painlessness; the ability to perform simultaneous correction of both eyes; use for various visual impairments (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism); Laser vision correction is performed for patients aged 18 to 55; the procedure is fast and in most cases on an outpatient basis; the recovery period is short, a few hours after the intervention, the patient can go home; predictability of the result and rapid recovery of vision; the ability to correct myopia or hyperopia of a high degree; stability of the result, which lasts for many years.

Minuses

some soreness and discomfort after the procedure; the possibility of developing complications; risk of damage to nerve endings and corneal epithelium; long-term use (for several months) of medications (in the form of drops); some post-surgery restrictions related to computer work or household chores; as the body ages, vision may weaken again; rather high cost of laser correction.

Price

How much does laser vision correction cost? The cost of the operation is quite high. Here are the average prices for the procedure:

Surgery according to the LASIK method - from 27,000 rubles; Correction according to the PRK method - from 35,000 rubles; Operation according to the FEMTO LASIK method - from 55,000 rubles.

All prices for the microsurgical procedure are per eye.

PRK

2) From the area that will be affected by laser radiation, the epithelium is removed with a laser or a surgical instrument.

Lasik

1) The first stage completely coincides with the PRK methodology

EPI-LASIK

EPI-LASIK is considered the most appropriate technique for patients with low levels of myopia, thin corneas, and in all cases where the formation of an epithelial flap may create certain problems.

today, medical centers and clinics in 45 countries work with laser techniques;
over the past 10 years, about 5 million vision corrections have been carried out in the world using the Lasik method;
in the USA and Japan, the procedure for restoring vision with the help of laser vision correction has long gone beyond specialized clinics; small laser correction centers can be seen on the territories of large shopping and entertainment complexes, next to dental and beauty parlors and beauty salons;
The US government, as part of the National Program for the Improvement of the Armed Forces, has been paying for laser vision correction for military personnel of all ranks and branches of service for several years.

Contraindications

The period of pregnancy and feeding;

Diabetes mellitus, rheumatism, thyroid disease and a number of other diseases;

Some types of eye diseases (dystrophy or degeneration of the cornea, glaucoma, iridocyclitis, etc.)

The final decision on the possibility of laser vision correction is made by the doctor after the diagnosis.

Diagnostics

Before the diagnosis, it is necessary not to wear contact lenses: soft - 7 days, hard - 14 days.

Some misconceptions

1. It will hurt.

2. Vision will take a long time to recover.

Improving the patient's vision begins within 1.5-2 hours after the correction, and within a week all the processes of visual functions are normalized.

3. Vision will become even worse.

4. Over time, the result of laser correction will deteriorate.

5. After laser vision correction, it will not be possible to live a full life

7. There will be not the result that was promised.

Table of contents [Show]

A beam of light, before reaching the sensitive cells and further along the nerve path to the brain, is refracted several times in the eyeball. The main site of this process is the lens. How we perceive the object depends mainly on its properties and abilities. Correcting pathological changes in the lens is quite difficult, the most effective way is to replace it - a complex, high-tech operation.

But there is an alternative method - the impact on the cornea. This is one of the layers of the spherical eyeball. It is in it that the primary refraction of light occurs before it hits the lens. Non-surgical vision correction for farsightedness, myopia or astigmatism involves the impact on the cornea with a laser and a change in its curvature.

Indications for laser vision correction

The operation is performed for three main eye diseases:

Myopia. This disease is also called myopia. It occurs as a result of a change in the shape (stretching) of the eyeball. The focus is formed not on the retina, but in front of it. As a result, the image appears blurry to a person. Correction of myopia is possible by wearing glasses, lenses, laser and surgical methods. Elimination of the cause of the disease - an altered shape of the eyeball, is currently impossible.
Farsightedness. The disease occurs due to a decrease in the size of the eyeball, a decrease in the accommodation of the lens (often happens in old age), insufficient refractive power of the cornea. As a result, the focus of nearby objects is formed behind the retina, and they look fuzzy. Farsightedness is often accompanied by a headache. Correction is carried out by wearing glasses, lenses, laser operations.
Astigmatism. This term refers to a violation of a person's ability to see clearly. It arises from a violation of the shape of the eye, lens or cornea. Image focus is not formed on the retina. Often the disease is accompanied by migraine, eye pain, rapid fatigue when reading. It can be corrected by wearing special glasses with different longitudinal and transverse curvature of the lenses. But the most effective is laser surgery.

All these diseases are united under the general name "ametropia". These include ailments associated with a problem in focusing the eye.

Indications for vision correction surgery for the described three diseases are:

The desire of the patient to get rid of glasses, contact lenses.
Age from 18 to 45 years.
Refraction indices for myopia - from -1 to -15 diopters, for hyperopia - up to +3 diopters, with astigmatism - up to +5 diopters.
Intolerance to glasses or contact lenses.
The professional needs of patients, the requirement for special visual acuity and speed of reaction to the image.
stable vision. If the deterioration gradually progresses (more than 1 per year), then you first need to stop this process, and then talk about laser correction.

Contraindications

The operation is not performed in the following cases:

Age up to 18 years. Before adulthood, the formation of the eyeball occurs, so it is better to wait for the end of the process for adequate correction.
Retinal detachment, glaucoma and cataract. Such diseases prevent the accurate identification of refractive problems caused by ametropia. Therefore, before the appointment of laser correction of the cornea, it is recommended to get rid of the above pathologies.
Pregnancy and lactation.
Keratotonus. With this disease, the cornea thins and changes its shape. Impact on it can lead to increased atrophic processes.
Diabetes mellitus, vascular pathology. In such cases, the blood supply to the retina of the eye is often disturbed, retinopathy develops.
Dry eye syndrome, reduced sensitivity of the cornea.
Inflammatory diseases in the acute or chronic stage.
oncological processes.
Severe mental illness.

Preparation for laser correction

The patient must stop wearing glasses or contact lenses at least a week before the correction. At this time, it is better to take a vacation. This is necessary for the cornea to return to its natural shape. Then the correction will be more adequate, accurate. Your doctor may choose to extend the time period for you to stop wearing artificial lenses.

Each clinic has a list of necessary tests that must be taken before the operation. Usually this is the absence or presence of certain infections, blood tests, urine tests. The test results have a limited validity period - from 10 days to a month.

For two days you need to stop drinking alcohol, using eye makeup. Before visiting the clinic, it is better to wash your hair and face. It is important to sleep well before laser vision correction, calm down and not be nervous. If the patient feels too scared or agitated, the doctor may recommend mild sedatives.

Varieties of the operation

There are two main methods of correction - PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and Lasik (laser keratomyelosis). The first operation allows correcting myopia up to 6 diopters, astigmatism up to 2.5-3 diopters. Both types of laser correction are performed sequentially: first on one eye, then on the other. But this happens in one operation.

Lasik is more often used to correct farsightedness and myopia complicated by astigmatism with a laser. This is because PRK requires a long (up to 10 days) healing time. Each type of operation has its pros and cons, but still Lasik is a more promising direction, so this method is most often preferred.

Photorefractive keratectomy

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The doctor treats the eyelid and eyelashes with an antiseptic. Sometimes an antibiotic is additionally instilled to prevent infection. The eye is fixed with an eyelid dilator and flushed with saline.

At the first stage, the doctor removes the epithelium. He can do it surgically, mechanically and laser. After that, the process of evaporation of the cornea begins. It is carried out only with a laser.

Restrictions on the method are imposed by the required residual thickness of the cornea. To perform its functions, it must be at least 200-300 microns (0.2-0.3 mm). To determine the optimal shape of the cornea and, accordingly, the degree of evaporation, complex calculations are carried out using special computer programs. The shape of the eyeball, the ability of the lens to accommodate, visual acuity are taken into account.

In some cases, it is possible to refuse excision of the epithelium. Then the operations are faster and with less risk of complications. In Russia, the installation of domestic production "Profile-500" is used for this.

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

The preparation is similar to that for PRK. The cornea is marked with safe ink. A metal ring is put on the eye, which additionally fixes it in one position.

The operation takes place under local anesthesia in three stages. At the first stage, the surgeon forms a flap from the cornea. It detaches the superficial layer, leaving it attached to the main thickness of the tissue, using a microkeratome instrument - specially designed for eye microsurgery.

laser vision correction: the course of the operation

With a sterile swab, the doctor removes excess fluid. At the second stage, he bends the flap and produces laser evaporation of the cornea. The whole process takes less than one minute. The flap is also covered with a sterile swab for this time. At the third stage, the separated piece is placed in its place, according to the marks made earlier. Washing the eye with sterile water, the doctor smoothes the flap. Suturing is not required, the cut-off piece is fixed on its own due to negative pressure inside the cornea.

The possibility of the operation is determined largely by the anatomical structure of the patient's eye. For its implementation, it is necessary that the cornea of \u200b\u200bthe eye be of sufficient size. The flap must be at least 150 microns thick. The deep layers of the cornea remaining after evaporation are at least 250 microns.

Video: how laser vision correction is done

Postoperative period, a reminder to the patient

On the first day after laser correction, the following reactions are normal:

Pain in the operated eye. With Lasik, it is usually insignificant, it feels like a foreign object getting under the eyelid.
Discomfort when looking at light.
Lachrymation.

The patient is prescribed a course of antibiotics and corticosteroids to prevent the development of infectious or non-infectious inflammation. Beta-blockers may be prescribed to prevent an increase in intraocular pressure.

In the first few days after surgery, the patient is recommended to:

Stay in a darkened room. Light can cause pain, pain in the eyes. It unnecessarily irritates the cornea, which prevents its healing.
Avoid touching the eye, especially on the first day. Important! It may seem to the patient that a speck has fallen under his eyelid, no need to try to remove it! If the discomfort is very strong, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. In the absence of cause for concern, he may prescribe drugs that reduce sensitivity.
Refusal to shower and wash. It is very important that any chemical agents that may be contained in soap or shampoo do not come into contact with the eye. Even water sometimes has a negative effect on the operated eye.
Refusal of alcohol until the completion of the course of taking medications. Antibiotics are incompatible with alcohol. It also impairs the effect of many other drugs.

During the first few weeks it is desirable:

Quit smoking and visiting polluted places. Smoke has a bad effect on the cornea, causes dryness, impairs its nutrition and blood supply. Because of this, it may heal more slowly.
Do not engage in sports that may affect the eyes - swimming, wrestling, etc. Corneal injuries during the recovery period are highly undesirable and can lead to irreparable consequences.
Avoid eye strain. It is important not to spend a lot of time at the computer, reading a book or watching TV. It is also worth refusing to drive a car in the evening.
Avoid bright light, wear sunglasses.
Do not use cosmetics for eyelids and eyelashes.
Do not wear contact lenses for 1-2 weeks.

Risks and consequences of the operation

Separate early and late postoperative complications. The first usually appear within a few days. These include:

Non-healing corneal erosion. Its treatment is quite complicated, it requires the consultation of specialists of a narrow profile. Common methods of therapy are the use of collagen coatings of the cornea, contact vision correction (use of soft lenses).
Reducing the thickness of the epithelial layer, its progressive destruction. It is accompanied by edema, the development of erosion.
Keratitis (inflammation of the eye). It can have an infectious and non-infectious nature. Keratitis manifests itself in redness of the eye, pain, irritation.
Opacities in the areas of evaporation of the cornea. They can also occur at later stages of the rehabilitation period. Their cause is excessive evaporation of corneal tissues. The complication usually responds well to resolving therapy. In some cases, you have to resort to a second operation.

The overall rate of late complications in Lasik is 1-5%, in PRK - 2-5%. In the later stages, the following negative consequences of laser correction may be revealed:

Dry eye syndrome. With such a pathology, there is no formation of a sufficient amount of lacrimal fluid. The patient feels irritation, pain, redness. Often there is involuntary lacrimation. The syndrome is successfully stopped by certain drugs in the form of drops.
Hypercorrection. This phenomenon occurs as a result of excessive ablation (evaporation) of the cornea. It leads to a change in the sign of ametropia, myopia is replaced by farsightedness and vice versa. You can talk about hypercorrection only at the end of the recovery period (3 months). Sometimes additional surgery may be required. Its implementation is allowed only with sufficient thickness of the cornea.
Wrong astigmatism. This is the name of the different refraction of light in one eye and along one meridian. Glasses in this case rarely correct astigmatism, it is necessary to use special contact lenses.
Keratoconus. This is the process of degradation of the cornea, as a result of which it takes on a conical shape. As a result, vision begins to deteriorate rapidly. For treatment, both conservative therapy and surgical are used.

Restoration of vision

For the final establishment of the success or failure of the operation, as well as for the stabilization of its results, a rather long period usually has to pass. The recovery period can go up to 3 months. Only after its expiration do they make a conclusion about the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as about subsequent corrective measures.

The results differ depending on the type of surgery, the underlying disease and the degree of visual impairment. The best results are possible with correction in the initial stages of the disorder.

With myopia

The most predictable operation is Lasik. It allows in 80% of cases to achieve correction with an accuracy of 0.5 diopters. In half of the cases, in patients with minor myopia, vision is completely restored (acuity value - 1.0). In 90% of cases, it improves to 0.5 and above.

With severe myopia (more than 10 diopters), in 10% of cases, a second operation may be required. In this case, it is called pre-correction. When it is carried out, the already cut-off flap is raised and additional evaporation of a part of the cornea is carried out. Such operations are carried out 3 and/or 6 months after the first procedure.

Precise data regarding PRK vision correction is difficult to provide. The average visual acuity is 0.8. The accuracy of the operation is not very high. The diagnosis of undercorrection or hypercorrection is made in 22% of cases. Visual impairment occurs in 9.7% of patients. In 12% of cases, there is no stabilization of the result obtained. The big advantage of using PRK over LASIK is the low risk of keratoconus after surgery.

With farsightedness

In this case, the restoration of vision, even with the Lasik method, does not follow such an optimistic scenario. Only in 80% of cases it is possible to achieve a visual acuity index of 0.5 and higher. Only in a third of patients the function of the eye is restored completely. The accuracy of the operation in the treatment of farsightedness also suffers: only in 60% of patients the deviation from the planned refraction value is less than 0.5 diopters.

PRK is used to treat farsightedness only when Lasik is contraindicated. The results of such a correction are rather unstable, which means that quite a serious regression is possible over the years. With a weak degree of farsightedness, it is satisfactory only in 60-80% of cases, and with severe violations - only in 40% of cases.

With astigmatism

In this disease, both methods manifest themselves in almost the same way. Researches of 2013 were published on the Ophthalmological Portal. According to the results of the observations, “no statistically significant difference in efficacy, safety or predictability was found [achieved: astigmatism

We answer the most exciting questions about the popular vision correction - Lasik. Many people are afraid of surgery. Are there any contraindications? How does life change after correction?

Operation LASIK (LASIK) - whether to do vision correction?

Lasik vision correction has been one of the safest, high-tech and completely painless for many years - this is the main plus in favor of the operation. Millions of surgeries are performed worldwide every year. Lasik is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses. Why is he in such demand?

Firstly, there is the possibility of improving vision up to 100%.
Secondly, you do not have to take a long sick leave, because hospitalization is not needed and recovery is fast, as well as the operation itself.
Thirdly, vision acquired through correction is maintained throughout life.

If you decide to look at the world with different eyes, then first of all you need to decide on the choice of an ophthalmological clinic.

In our Center for Eye Microsurgery, it is possible to carry out even the most complex multi-stage operations. We use a new ultrafast excimer laser and perform the entire range of diagnostics. Experienced doctors of the center have the opportunity to correct the vision of patients with severe concomitant diseases, such as diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular pathology.

In order to decide if Lasik is right for you, the doctor will conduct a complete examination to avoid all possible risks. According to the results of the diagnosis, you will be able to find out from the doctor’s conclusion whether you will be able to restore vision by 100%.

LASIK - How is the operation performed?

Before vision correction, the doctor does a control examination and performs local anesthesia (no injections, only drops are used). Then you sit on the operating table, which is not at all scary, and the surgeon adjusts the correct position of your head relative to the laser. Usually correction is performed on both eyes alternately. The operated eye is fixed so that you can not be afraid to accidentally blink, and the second you blink calmly. Within 5-6 hours after the procedure, you have severe photophobia and lacrimation. But the next morning, when you arrive for a follow-up examination, there will be no more unpleasant symptoms. In most cases, by this time visual acuity is as close as possible to the predicted one. The clarity of the picture may vary slightly over several days or even weeks while the recovery process is active. As a result, the retina acquires the ability to focus clearly, which means an almost perfect image.

After vision correction - recovery

Lasik is more like not an operation, but a quick cosmetic procedure, after which you are almost immediately back in the ranks. The whole surgery takes 5-7 minutes per eye.

That's all! You can return to your usual rhythm of life the very next day after the operation, if this does not contradict the rules of eye care. Although, of course, the ideal option would be to spend as much time as possible alone without too much activity. A visit to the doctor is necessary the next day after the operation, and then a month later. A follow-up examination is usually carried out after 6 months and after one year.

For better recovery after correction, it is important to follow a number of rules.

The clinic will definitely give you a reminder on how to take care of your health after Lasik surgery. In fact, all recommendations come down to one thing: no aggressive effects on the operated eye should be allowed, whether it be water, mechanical friction, pressure, high temperature, decorative cosmetics, tobacco smoke or aerosols. Immediately after the operation and during the first days, you will definitely need high-quality glasses with a high degree of UV protection, even if the day is not at all sunny. You will definitely need to reduce physical activity and do without records in the gym. Of course, alcohol is excluded, because the postoperative course of eye drops contains an antibiotic. The good news is that it's worth it, because immediately after the end of the operation, the patient notices a significant improvement in vision, and a full recovery occurs within a week.

The disadvantages of vision correction include a number of contraindications

Pregnancy, lactation and 3 months post lactation
The only seeing eye
Viral herpetic keratitis
Serious disorders of the immune system, autoimmune diseases
Tuberculosis
Mental disorders
Cataract (vision correction does not make sense, lens replacement is needed)

In other cases, Lasik is a real salvation. Once this technology seemed fantastic, but now it helps millions of people to gain a new, clear picture of the world.

How to choose a treatment method and not be afraid of surgery - we figure it out together with the SMILE EYES laser surgery clinic :).

I have vision problems, do I really need surgery?

Vision problems are a very broad term. There are conditions in which it is impossible to do without surgical intervention, such as cataracts. With many problems with the optics of the eye, you can live without surgery.

Nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia and astigmatism (collectively referred to as refractive errors) are conditions that are corrected with glasses or contact lenses if they suit you. But for many people, they cause a lot of inconvenience: glasses change their appearance, their lenses fog up and distort space, frames need to be changed and matched to clothes, they interfere with sports. Finally, high-quality glasses and lenses are not cheap and require constant care and attention.

At the same time, laser correction is a great way to correct vision. The laser is a tool, you can use it in different ways and perform operations that are very different from each other. And if you consider that lasers are also different, it becomes clear: for almost every case, you can choose a technique that suits better than others.

What is the difference between laser correction methods?

There are three generations of laser vision correction methods. Let's start with the most modern and most gentle on the eyes.

ReLEX SMILE (SMILE)

During laser correction using the ReLEX SMILE method, a femtosecond laser forms a small lens (lenticule) in the cornea. Three-dimensional modeling of the lens takes 26 seconds, then the lenticule is taken out through a minimal (only 2 mm) tunnel in the cornea. After that, the eye begins to correctly refract and focus the image on the retina.

SMILE is the most sparing microinvasive procedure, after which the corneal surface is not injured, its biomechanical properties are preserved and the likelihood of dry eye syndrome is reduced. Sometimes this is the only possible way of laser vision correction for people with thin corneas, as well as for those who play sports and lead an active lifestyle.

LASIK (LASIK) or its variety Femto-LASIK (femto-LASIK)

This is an operation during which, using a microkeratome (a mechanical device with blades) or a femtosecond laser, a flap is formed in the form of a “lid” from the surface layers of the cornea. This flap is raised, and then another type of laser - an excimer laser - evaporates the necessary volume of corneal tissue to obtain new optical properties of the eye. Then the "lid" returns to its original place.

Femtolaser helps to perform all manipulations with high accuracy. Flap-cap technologies appeared more than 20 years ago and before the development of the SMILE method, they were the most common type of laser correction.

PRK (PRK)

One of the old methods of correction. With it, the epithelium (the outer layer of the eye) is removed to get to the cornea and evaporate the required amount of tissue using an excimer laser. There are several types of this operation: trans-PRK, epiLASIK or LASEK. The only difference is how to remove the epithelium - with a laser or manually.

Previously, these methods were used in patients with thin corneas. But the removal of the epithelium is a painful and unsafe procedure, it damages a large number of nerve endings and destroys the outer limiting membrane of the cornea. The only plus is that it is not necessary to form a “lid”, so the cornea retains biomechanical strength. Today, ReLEX SMILE technology is preferable: the same benefits are achieved with less injuries.

It is safe?

The ReLEX SMILE technology appeared in 2007, today more than a million patients have been operated on by this method all over the world, and their number is growing.

LASIK operations have been performed for more than twenty years, and more than 15 million people have been cured with its help. This is a proven technique, although it has its contraindications. Femto-LASIK is a technique that has improved LASIK and ReLEX SMILE has made it possible to perform vision correction in the most gentle way. According to the results of the first long-term studies, it is safe and effective.

It's hard for me to decide on the operation, I'm afraid

Many people can't stand even the thought of touching or doing anything to their eye. Because of this fear, they refuse to wear contact lenses, even if in some cases they are more necessary than glasses. Therefore, the fact of the operation is especially scary for them. But laser correction with such fear is one of the best ways to restore your vision.

First, the operations are carried out quickly. It depends on the technique, but usually the whole process takes no more than 20 minutes (the time a person spends in the operating room).

Secondly, in case of experiences, you should pay attention to SMILE: it is carried out even faster, the intervention itself takes only 26 seconds, it is completely painless and has the shortest recovery period. After the correction, discomfort may appear in the eye for a while, but after the SMILE operation, they disappear after a couple of hours. The patient returns to his usual life the very next day. It is worth overcoming your fear for a few minutes in order to see well again.

How does it go? What if I blink?

Eye surgery technologies have long been developed so that patients cannot harm themselves. Of course, no one forces you to keep your eyes open by an effort of will: for this, there are special devices that fix the eyelids. No sharp tools: everything is neat and comfortable. In addition, if you are worried, at the SMILE EYES:) Augenklinik Moskau clinic, you will be offered mild sedatives during preparation for the operation, as well as the latest NuCalm gadget to relieve stress.

Specialists of the SMILE EYES clinic:) Prof. Tatiana Shilova and Prof. Walter Sekundo

All the necessary examinations are carried out before the appointment of laser correction, lifestyle changes are not necessary before the operation (unless you may be asked to remove contact lenses a week or two before the operation), and the postoperative period is short and easy.

They say that after these operations there are many optical side effects.

This was true for lasers 15–20 years ago. Their principle of operation has long been outdated, and modern methods of correction make it possible to obtain high quality vision. Recommendations are always individual: before the operation, the patient undergoes a comprehensive diagnostic examination and discusses the risks with the surgeon. In most cases, the optical effects go away on their own within a few weeks or months.

With SMILE surgery, the high quality of vision is noticeable immediately after the correction, and it gradually improves.

The laser causes almost no damage to the cornea - since the incision is very small, the overall effect on the stability of the corneal tissues is minimal. This means that after the intervention, the eye shell will heal quickly, the patient will not have to worry about the possible displacement of the flap, which is formed with LASIK and Femto-LASIK technologies, the risk of developing keratectasia (this is a condition in which the cornea changes shape) will decrease.

Another plus of the ReLEX SMILE correction is the reduction in the likelihood of developing dry eye syndrome compared to other methods, because this technology does not damage the nerve endings in the cornea.

But suddenly I can not do such an operation?

Any medical intervention has contraindications, even such a sparing one as SMILE. The main contraindication for any type of laser correction is a diseased cornea in a latent or explicit form, the so-called keratoconus. In this case, other methods of correction are used.

Other common contraindications:

Laser correction is not recommended before the age of 18, because at this time the eye can grow.
Some chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiencies, a number of other diseases (with exacerbation).
Pregnancy and lactation are temporary contraindications, that is, after the birth of a child and the completion of feeding, women can undergo a correction.
Some eye diseases, such as cataracts, require a different type of intervention.

Even if the anatomical features of the eye do not allow for laser vision correction, there are other effective and accurate methods that will allow you to get rid of glasses and contact lenses. To find out exactly which technique is right for you, the specialists of the SMILE EYES clinic will help :) Augenklinik Moskau after a comprehensive diagnosis.

Why the SMILE EYES clinic :)?

Because SMILE EYES:) Augenklinik Moskau, the Moscow branch of the SMILE EYES:) holding, currently has the greatest experience in operations performed using ReLEX SMILE technology. Patients have the opportunity to perform vision correction with Professor Walter Secundo, the creator and developer of the SMILE technique, who was the first to perform such laser correction. Watch how Professor Secundo himself talks about the benefits of the operation:

The ophthalmological center is part of the international holding SMILE EYES :), which consists of 12 branches in Germany, Austria and Moscow. All centers operate according to German standards and technologies. The main operating surgeon is Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Shilova Tatyana Yurievna. The annual number of patients operated on by her is more than 4,000 people with various ophthalmic pathologies.

Each eye is unique, which is why SMILE EYES:) Augenklinik Moskau uses an individual approach to patients and carefully chooses the method that is best suited for the treatment of a particular case.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SMILE CORRECTION

The methods have contraindications. Consult with a specialist.

If you are unlucky with your eyesight, this does not mean that you will have to wear glasses or lenses all your life. Laser vision correction techniques allow you to get rid of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Laser technology in ophthalmology is the cutting edge of this field of medicine, the most innovative and perfect way to correct visual impairments.

What is laser vision correction

In order for us to see everything clearly and clearly, the eye must focus. It is the inability to "tune" the correct focus - and there is a cause of poor vision. With a laser, doctors can now reshape the cornea so that the eye regains its ability to focus and the image that hits the retina is clear.

The first method of laser vision correction was developed a long time ago - operations began to be carried out in the late 1980s. Since then, the approach has improved significantly. About 3 million operations are performed annually in the world, and their number is growing - people have ceased to be wary of this procedure, and prices are gradually decreasing, making laser vision correction affordable for many.

Indications and contraindications for the procedure

What problems can be solved with laser vision correction? This procedure is effective for myopia up to -12 diopters, hyperopia up to +6 diopters and mixed astigmatism from -4 to +4 diopters. Sometimes it is also indicated for more serious defects.

Laser vision correction can be recommended to anyone who suffers from vision problems. It is especially necessary for those who for some reason cannot wear lenses or experience significant discomfort when using them. Laser vision correction is an excellent solution for those who have problems with only one eye.

Before you go to find out the cost of laser vision correction, check out the list of contraindications for this procedure, including:

cataract;
glaucoma;
rapidly progressive visual impairment;
diabetes;
the presence of a pacemaker;
pathology of the cornea (these include its thinning, keratoconus and others);
eye infections;
pregnancy (after the laser correction procedure, strong physical exertion is contraindicated, and childbirth is a load that is almost on the verge of possibilities).

A conditional contraindication is considered to be under 21 years of age (although exceptions are possible here).

Possible Complications

Despite the fact that laser vision correction is a quick and less traumatic operation, it is worth remembering that some risk is still present. The chances of complications developing are minimal, but they do exist. However, it should be noted that most often they arise due to non-compliance with the rules of behavior after the operation. So, complications after laser vision correction include:

swelling, inflammation and hemorrhage;
injury and displacement of the corneal flap (often due to the fact that the patient touched the eye);
decrease in contrast sensitivity at dusk (manifested at the first time after surgery and disappears with time).

Useful information
According to statistics, the risk of developing any complications after laser vision correction surgery is 2%.

How is the procedure carried out

Laser vision correction is carried out using a special device - a laser beam directed at the cornea evaporates layers of cells, the thickness of which is measured in microns, in order to change the shape of the cornea. This is an incredibly delicate and high-tech procedure.

Nevertheless, for the patient himself, it is simple and fast. Laser vision correction is performed on an outpatient basis. After all examinations, diagnosis and consultations with an ophthalmologist, the patient lies down on the couch, the doctor performs local anesthesia with eye drops and fixes the eye in an open state.

Then the doctor, using a keratome, forms the thinnest flap of the cornea and takes it aside, as if opening the page of a book. After that, the cornea is treated with a laser beam, which evaporates some of the cells and gives the cornea the necessary shape, carefully calculated in all respects. When the manipulation is completed, the doctor returns the corneal flap to its place and smoothes it. Antibacterial drops are instilled into the eye, the fixative is removed, and the patient can go home.

Many patients are worried about the thought: what will happen if during the operation I accidentally shift my gaze? After all, if laser correction is such a delicate work, the consequences of the slightest movement of the eyeballs will be catastrophic! Actually there is no risk. Modern lasers track the minimum deviations of the eyeball, as a result, the laser beam hits exactly the place that was originally determined by the computer. With a strong deviation of the eyeball, the device automatically stops working. The whole operation takes 10-15 minutes, and the time of direct exposure of the laser to the eye is from 30 to 40 seconds. The operation is completely painless. Moreover, even during a short rehabilitation period, the patient does not feel any discomfort or pain. However, for a speedy recovery and prevention of complications, some rules should be followed.

Within 3-4 weeks after the operation, you should not rub your eye (preferably not touch it at all), you should wear dark glasses even in cloudy weather. Overheating (baths, saunas, solarium, hot baths), physical activity and sports games, alcohol intake should be avoided, and women should also stop using cosmetics.

There are several methods of laser vision correction. Their main difference is in the type of laser used for the operation and the way the corneal surface is formed for ablation.

Methods of laser vision correction

PRK (PRK)- photorefractive keratectomy. This is the oldest method from which the victorious procession of laser vision correction began around the world. For the late 1980s and early 1990s, this was the most advanced technique, but is now rarely used. It is more traumatic than the others, it has a high risk of corneal clouding. However, this method is cheaper than others, it does not require a very high qualification of a doctor, therefore it has not yet gone out of use.
LASIK (LASIK)- unlike PRK, this method, in addition to the excimer laser, involves the use of a microkeratome device (to form a corneal flap). The approach is characterized by less trauma, quick rehabilitation (in one day), more opportunities in terms of restoring vision (eliminating myopia up to -12 diopters). LASIK allows you to perform surgery on both eyes at once.
Femto LASIK (Femto LASIK)- the same LASIK, only a corneal flap is formed using a femtolaser.
Super LASIK (Super LASIK)- the most popular and widespread method of laser vision correction. Super LASIK surgery takes into account the structural features of the cornea and higher-order aberrations of each patient, which makes it possible to achieve the best and lasting result - within 1–2 hours after the operation, the patient sees the world clearly and clearly. The number of possible complications after such an operation is also minimal.
Epi LASIK (Epi LASIK)- a type of LASIK designed for thin corneas, a rather rare and little-used method, but it can help those who, for some reason, are not suitable for other vision correction methods.
LASEK (LASEK)- another type of laser correction for thin corneas, developed in 1999 in Italy. It is more traumatic than LASIK and can be painful.
SMILE (ReLex)- correction technology using a femtosecond laser. With this method, the so-called lenticule of the cornea is formed inside, and it is removed through the incision. This method allows you to correct only slight myopia.

How much does laser vision correction cost?

The cost of laser vision correction is made up of the type of operation, the equipment used, the severity of the problem, the reputation and level of both the clinic in general and the doctor in particular. On average, the price of laser vision correction in Moscow ranges from 25 to 40 thousand per eye.

The cost of the examination and postoperative follow-up should be added to the price of the operation itself.

“Open your eyes”, “look at the world with different eyes”... In the context of modern ophthalmology, these phraseological units take on a direct meaning. Laser correction technologies allow people with severe visual impairments to gain visual acuity in just half an hour. The main thing is to choose a reliable clinic, a qualified specialist and a suitable technique.

Vision correction - what is it? When is it needed? Analyzes and examinations for successful correction

Thanks

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

What does vision correction mean?

vision correction is one of the areas in ophthalmology and optometry, the main task of which is to achieve maximum visual acuity in the patient. There are several systems for measuring sharpness. vision, but everywhere there is a certain "standard", conditionally equal to one hundred percent. Regarding this norm, the visual acuity of the patient is determined. Currently, there are quite a few different methods of correction.

It should be noted that vision correction, as a rule, is necessary already in the absence of pathology. If the patient has a specific disease that reduces visual acuity, first of all, adequate treatment is necessary.
This belongs to the field of ophthalmology. If, for example, you pick up glasses without curing the underlying pathology, then your vision will continue to gradually deteriorate, and the glasses will no longer help.

The main task in this area is to ensure the best quality of life for the patient. To do this, they select the method that will bring visual acuity to the highest possible level. In addition, fitted contact lenses or glasses should not cause side effects ( dizziness, nausea, etc.). Therefore, there is the concept of “portability” of correction. In practice, not every patient can return one hundred percent vision. However, specialists involved in vision correction try to achieve the highest possible sharpness for a particular patient.

The perception of images by the human body occurs as follows:

Objects that a person sees reflect or emit rays of light. In complete darkness, in the absence of light, a person will not see anything, regardless of his visual acuity.
The eye consists of a number of structures capable of refracting light rays and focusing them on special receptors. The refractive system of the eye includes the cornea ( the shiny round part of the eye that is in front of the pupil) and lens ( physiological lens inside the eye that can change its curvature). The remaining anatomical structures inside the eyeball play a supporting role and do not participate in refraction ( refraction of light rays).
Normally, light rays are refracted in such a way that the image is focused on the retina. This is a special shell on the back of the eyeball that contains receptors that respond to light.
Many nerve endings depart from the receptors, connecting to the optic nerve, which exits the orbit into the cranial cavity.
In the cranial cavity, nerve impulses from the eyes are transmitted to the occipital lobes of the brain, where the visual analyzer is located. This is the section of the cerebral cortex, which perceives, processes and decodes incoming information.

Vision may be reduced if any of the above stages are impaired. Any therapeutic measures aimed at correcting these disorders can be considered vision correction.

What diseases require vision correction?

Strictly speaking, with various eye diseases, vision correction is a secondary task. The disease implies any disorder ( anatomical or physiological), which requires appropriate treatment. This will avoid complications in the future many diseases progress and can lead to blindness). Often, eye pathologies are accompanied by the appearance of a so-called refractive error. This means that the rays of light, passing through the refractive system of the eye, are not focused on the retina, which perceives information. It is the refractive error that requires correction, but first of all, it is necessary to diagnose and cure the underlying disease.

Vision correction is required for the following diseases and pathological conditions:

Keratoconus. With keratoconus, the main method of treatment, which gives a good effect, is corneal transplantation. However, this is a rather complicated operation, and many patients refuse it or postpone it for some time. Before the operation, the patient is selected special lenses that correct vision.
Cataract. A cataract is a pathological change in the lens, due to which light rays pass through it worse and do not reach the retina. In the initial stages, many patients have swelling of the lens. Its curvature changes, and it begins to refract the rays of light more strongly. As a result, the so-called false myopia occurs ( myopia) , which before operation ( for lens replacement) are corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
retinal degeneration. Retinal degeneration is a violation at the level of the membrane of the eye that perceives light rays. Cell death in large numbers can lead to irreversible loss of vision. If treatment can stop the degeneration, vision correction may be needed. Since the retina does not take part in refraction, the correction here will have its own characteristics. The image can be focused in the required area, but vision is reduced due to partial death of receptor cells. Spectral glasses, which selectively block light rays of a certain wavelength, help in such cases. Thus, the patient does not see the entire color spectrum, but only some colors. However, visual acuity in these cases can increase markedly.
Lens damage. Sometimes, as a result of an eye injury, the lens responsible for focusing the image at various distances is damaged. If for some reason it cannot be replaced, the lens is simply removed without implanting an artificial one. Correction is carried out using a strong lens ( about +10 diopters). Its optical refraction power partially compensates for the absence of a lens, and vision improves significantly. In young children with congenital eye anomalies, this correction is sometimes resorted to temporarily. After a certain age, an operation is performed to implant an artificial lens, and the need to use a lens disappears.
Corneal trauma. In some cases, after an eye injury or surgery ( as a complication) can significantly change the shape of the cornea. As a rule, this leads to the development of complex astigmatism, when light rays are refracted differently in different directions ( meridians), and the image is not focused on the retina. Currently, it is believed that correction with scleral lenses is the most effective for such patients.

Also, pseudophakia can be attributed to conditions requiring vision correction. This is not a disease, but a consequence of treatment, when an artificial lens is implanted into the eye after a cataract. Many patients then have problems with near vision, and they are prescribed appropriate glasses.

It should also be noted that some eye diseases lead to visual impairment, which cannot be corrected. These are pathologies that kill cells at the level of the retina and optic nerve. These include, for example, glaucoma and severe retinal degeneration of various etiologies ( origin). In these cases, there is no refractive error that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. The image is ideally projected onto the retina, but the eye is still not able to perceive it normally. Such pathologies without proper treatment and control lead to irreversible visual impairment and blindness.

Which doctors do vision correction?

Vision correction involves two large sections. First, it is necessary to diagnose and treat the pathology of the eye, which in many cases can progress or give various complications. They do it ophthalmologists ( enroll) and ophthalmic surgeons. Secondly, many patients need to fit glasses or contact lenses to restore normal vision. This is what optometrists do. The coordinated work of doctors at various stages allows most patients to achieve the desired result or maintain the existing visual acuity ( if there is irreversible damage or impairment).

In various cases, the following specialists may be involved in vision correction:

Ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist is a specialist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of various eye diseases. It is to this doctor that patients usually turn when their vision begins to decline. If necessary, the ophthalmologist can refer the patient to a narrower specialist who will provide more qualified assistance with a specific problem.
Children's ophthalmologist. Pediatric ophthalmology is often singled out as a separate branch, since vision correction here has its own characteristics. The eye grows in size as the child grows, and this can lead to both the progression of the disease and spontaneous improvement in vision. That is why the selection of glasses or contact lenses, as well as the decision on surgical treatment in childhood, requires increased attention. Only a pediatric ophthalmologist who is familiar with all these subtleties will be able to provide optimal vision correction in a child.
Ophthalmic surgeon. An ophthalmic surgeon is a specialist in eye microsurgery. In fact, this is an ophthalmologist who has the skills necessary to perform surgical interventions on the eyeball. These specialists are engaged in surgical correction of vision. This may be necessary for a number of eye diseases. Surgery may also be performed to allow the patient not to wear glasses or contact lenses ( not in all cases there is such an opportunity).
Retinologist. A retinologist is a specialist who deals with pathologies of the retina. His consultation is required if vision began to decline against the background of dystrophy ( dying off) retina, retinal detachment or malnutrition. Also, consultation with a retinologist is indicated for patients with diabetes mellitus ( even if vision has not yet begun to deteriorate).
Strabolog. A strobologist is a subspecialist in ophthalmology who deals with the treatment of strabismus. This doctor will be able to most accurately determine the causes of this problem and advise the necessary treatment. Children are especially often referred to a strabolog, since many cases of strabismus can be corrected in childhood. Vision correction here involves the selection of the necessary glasses, and sometimes surgical intervention.
Optometrist. An optometrist in many countries is not qualified as a doctor, as he cannot carry out a full diagnosis and prescribe treatment. However, it is this specialist who is directly involved in vision correction. His task is to select glasses or contact lenses that meet the individual needs of the patient. Patients who have already been treated by an ophthalmologist are referred to an optometrist, but their vision has not been restored one hundred percent. They are selected glasses depending on the nature of the work, the existing anatomical and physiological features. Certified optometrists work in opticians and major vision correction centers.

It should also be noted that sometimes vision is reduced against the background of systemic diseases that are not directly related to the organ of vision. In these cases, the ophthalmologist, having determined the cause, can refer the patient to a consultation with another specialist. For example, in diabetes mellitus, vision may decrease due to changes at the level of the retina. To maintain a normal blood sugar level, the patient will be referred to an endocrinologist. In other cases, it may be necessary to consult a neurologist, rheumatologist, etc. Of course, the ophthalmologist will also be directly involved in maintaining a normal level of vision. Just for a complete recovery in these cases, the joint efforts of several specialists are required.

Is it possible to correct vision in only one eye?

In some patients, due to injury or any disease, vision deteriorates in only one eye. Of course, in this case, vision correction will require an individual approach, although there are not many fundamental differences. For example, surgical interventions are in any case done on each eye separately ( e.g. laser correction or lens replacement for cataracts).

Spectacle correction is also possible, but in these cases it has some disadvantages. If you need a strong correction on one eye, more massive lenses are used here. On the second eye, such a correction is not needed, and the optician can insert a simple glass there that does not distort the image. As a rule, the thickness of this glass is selected so that its mass is approximately equal to the mass of the lens. Thus, the frame will look normal on the face ( with a difference in mass, it may be slightly skewed). However, outwardly the glasses will look different, which will create an aesthetic problem for a person. To avoid this, it is possible to select a contact lens that will be worn only on the eye that needs correction.

What type of vision needs correction?

There is no single answer to this question, since each patient decides for himself when he needs to see a doctor. For most people, vision gradually deteriorates with age, due to a number of anatomical and physiological changes ( first of all - a decrease in the elasticity of the lens). perfect vision ( one hundred percent) is a conditional value that doctors need as a guideline. Quite a lot of people have visual acuity of 150 - 300 percent, and sometimes more. This is an individual feature of a person. With a number of pathologies, the vision of such people can decrease by up to one hundred percent, and they will feel discomfort compared to their previous state. An attentive doctor, when examining such patients, will note a gradual deterioration and determine its cause.

In general, in the absence of pathology, the moment when vision correction is necessary is determined by the patient himself. It occurs when a person becomes uncomfortable to perform his usual actions at work, at home or in certain conditions. Often people turn to make special glasses for reading or working at a computer. Thus, the need for vision correction is largely dictated by the patient's lifestyle. Those people who do not face increased eye strain in everyday life can lead a normal life even with a decrease in visual acuity to 70-80 percent of the generally accepted norm.

However, there are a number of situations when vision correction is necessary for medical reasons. This usually happens when it comes to progressive eye pathologies. For such patients, the correct fitting of glasses or contact lenses is a chance to stop or slow down the problem.

Vision correction is necessary in the following cases:

Congenital refractive errors. In children, for various reasons, congenital refractive errors may occur. This is due to the individual characteristics of the cornea, lens or abnormal size of the eyeball ( too "long" or too "short" eye). If you do not find the right glasses or contact lenses that will correct the refractive error ( refraction of light), the body will begin to adapt itself to the prevailing conditions in the process of growth. As a result, strabismus may develop. Correct correction is especially necessary if visual acuity differs greatly in front of the eyes. In this case, children develop strabismus faster, and binocular vision may not develop ( vision with two eyes).
progressive ( congenital and acquired) myopia. With congenital myopia, a variety of problems can appear in a child with age. Firstly, as the body grows, the eye will increase slightly in size, and visual acuity will fall more. Secondly, there is a risk of retinal detachment ( with axial myopia), which leads to irreversible loss of vision. Thirdly, amblyopia may develop, which in adulthood will be impossible to cure. All of these problems can be prevented with proper correction of myopia in childhood.
Deterioration in the quality of life. This reason is the most simple and obvious. As soon as a person begins to experience difficulties at work or at home, he needs vision correction. This allows you to maintain your ability to work and improve the quality of life.

There are other less common indications for visiting an ophthalmologist.

Where to go for vision correction? ( centers, clinics, institutes, etc.)

Currently, there are many public and private clinics that offer a wide range of vision correction methods. For the selection of glasses or contact lenses, it is most convenient to contact an optician. Here, an initial examination of the patient is carried out, visual acuity is checked and a prescription for the manufacture of glasses can be issued. Some opticians also organize appointment hours for an ophthalmologist who gives consultations. If the optician does not provide such a service, the optometrist will refer the patient to a specialized specialist ( if any disease is suspected that requires specific treatment, and not just vision correction).

Specialists in various fields work in private clinics and vision correction centers. Most of these centers provide services for both surgical and optical vision correction. You can make an appointment with a specialist by phone ( registries) and sometimes online.

Do they do vision correction under the compulsory medical insurance policy ( compulsory health insurance) is free?

In principle, both surgical and non-surgical vision correction is covered by most health insurance policies. However, there are a few things that can affect this. They must be taken into account or clarified before contacting a medical institution for a free procedure.

The following conditions affect the inclusion of vision correction in the insurance policy:

Policy type. In the case of health insurance, there are documents and contracts that detail the situations in which a person can expect to be reimbursed for the cost of medical services. Some policies may include vision correction, some may not.
Visual acuity. Usually, health insurance covers diseases and problems that pose a danger to the patient or greatly affect the standard of living. With a slight decrease in vision, insurance may not include correction. Details can be obtained from the company with which the contract is concluded.
Clinic or center providing services. Vision correction under the policy can only be done at a clinic or center that has a contract with an insurance company. In the case of compulsory health insurance, these are usually public hospitals and some private clinics. Also, insurance may not cover the full range of vision correction services available at the clinic. Details can be found both in the insurance company and in the clinic where the patient wants to receive medical services.

It should also be borne in mind that for vision correction according to the policy ( especially surgical) are usually written to the queue. Sometimes the operation can be waited for several years. Urgently under the policy, only correction or surgery is done that can prevent blindness or permanent vision loss. That is, only for certain diseases ( according to certain indications) vision correction can be done free of charge under the policy.

What disorders most often require vision correction?

Vision correction in the vast majority of cases involves the correction of the so-called refractive error. This means that with the help of special lenses, the light rays entering the eye are focused on the retina, which perceives the image and transmits it to the brain. Regardless of the causes that caused the violations, there are four main types of refractive errors. These are pathological conditions when the focus is shifted from the retina in one way or another, and the person begins to see poorly.

It is customary to distinguish the following types of refractive errors:

myopia ( myopia);
astigmatism;
presbyopia.

Each of the above types has its own characteristics and requires appropriate vision correction. Separately, cases of impaired binocular vision with strabismus are considered, when the eyes perceive the image “separately”.

Vision correction for nearsightedness myopia)

According to statistics, myopia is the most common cause of decreased visual acuity. It is now common in both adults and children. In this case, the focal point is in front of the retina. As a rule, this is due to the fact that the eyeball has an elongated shape ( along the anteroposterior axis) or the refractive power of the cornea is too high. In any case, the correction involves the use of scattering ( minus) lenses. This moves the focus back to the retina and visual acuity returns to normal. People with myopia can see well at close range, but have difficulty distinguishing distant objects. In many cases, patients are prescribed distance glasses.

In the correction of myopia, doctors adhere to the following principles:

Myopia under the age of 1 year is not corrected.
In case of congenital myopia in children from 1 to 3 years of age, wearing glasses is recommended. Contact correction is also possible if the child tolerates it normally, and parents have the necessary skills to carefully remove and put on contact lenses.
With the so-called school myopia ( in school-age children) there is a regular load on the eyes. Maximum vision correction is recommended.
If the eye muscles are working normally, then the child is prescribed one pair of glasses for permanent use. If muscle weakness is detected, 2 pairs of glasses are prescribed, for distance and for near. At the same time, the pair for the near is weaker, and for the distance - stronger.
Often with myopia, bifocals are used, which combine correction for distance and near. In the lower zone ( for reading) the correction will be smaller. This is necessary because with one pair of distance glasses ( which the patient wears at all times) is difficult to read and work at close range. At school age, such a correction may be temporary.
Adults under 45 are usually prescribed one pair of fully corrected distance glasses ( up to 100% or as close as possible to this indicator).
After 40-45 years, the patient may develop presbyopia ( age-related changes in the lens). With this combination, progressive glasses are recommended, in which the refractive power is maximum at the top of the lens and weakens from top to bottom.

Contact correction in myopia has its indications. Patients with a large difference in visual acuity in different eyes ( more than 2 diopters) may be uncomfortable with glasses and cannot be fully corrected. However, even with a small difference, it is sometimes more convenient to use contact lenses. They are recommended if the degree of myopia is more than -3. If the myopia is more than -6 diopters, then the glasses will simply be too massive, and side distortions will not allow the patient to quickly adapt to them.

When correcting myopia, it is important to pay attention to whether the problem is progressing. In many cases, the anteroposterior size of the eye gradually increases, and the degree of myopia increases. In childhood, progression is recommended to slow down with the help of night lenses. They can be used to correct myopia down to -6 diopters ( with some types of lenses and up to -8). In adulthood, myopia rarely progresses.

In the case of myopia, it is recommended to periodically visit an ophthalmologist or optometrist, who can measure visual acuity and determine whether the problem is progressing. This is especially necessary in childhood preventive examination should be done every six months). If you do not correct early myopia, various complications can develop. The child will not develop normal binocular vision ( there is constant double vision) and stereo vision ( volumetric perception of objects). In addition, divergent strabismus may develop over time and be more difficult to treat in the future.

Also, many patients resort to laser vision correction. It is possible if myopia does not progress. If, with progressive myopia, the shape of the cornea is corrected with a laser, the improvement will be temporary. Gradually, the eye will stretch more, and vision will deteriorate again. In such patients, it is preferable to implant a negative phakic lens ( a corrective lens is implanted directly into the eyeball, in front of the lens).

Self-purchasing glasses for the correction of myopia is not recommended for several reasons. First, the causes of this pathology are not known. The approach to treating myopia depends on other parameters of the eye ( refractive power, the presence of concomitant astigmatism, the size of the eyeball). Secondly, myopia may be temporary. For example, it may be a consequence of the so-called spasm of accommodation, when the muscles responsible for the curvature of the lens are tense. Temporary myopia may also occur with diabetes mellitus or while taking a number of drugs ( sulfanilamide antibiotics, etc.).

Correction of vision for farsightedness ( hypermetropia)

With farsightedness, the focus of the refractive systems of the eye is behind the retina, which reduces visual acuity. The cause of this problem may be insufficient curvature of the cornea or lens, or an anteroposterior axis of the eye that is too short. A patient with farsightedness has difficulty seeing objects both at close range and at a distance. However, in some patients ( especially in childhood) there may not be any symptoms or manifestations at all. This is due to the ability of the eye to change the curvature of the lens ( accommodation). Constantly tensing the muscles that fix the lens, the patient unconsciously shifts the focus to the retina, and visual acuity can be one hundred percent. This happens only if the lens tissues are sufficiently elastic, and the muscle is able to work for a long time. With age ( as well as with depletion of muscle capabilities) visual acuity deteriorates sharply.
That is why a slight hyperopia in young people is more difficult to suspect and identify than myopia.

Farsightedness is corrected with converging lenses that shift the focus to the retina ( bring it closer to the lens). Properly selected glasses or contact lenses relieve additional stress on the ciliary muscles responsible for accommodation. This removes rapid eye fatigue and improves the patient's well-being.

When correcting farsightedness, the following principles are followed:

In childhood, correction is needed only if the child had a congenital cataract removed without implanting an artificial lens ( on average, a lens of +10 diopters is needed).
At the age of 3 years, farsightedness with a degree of less than +3 diopters also does not require correction ( in the absence of additional evidence).
In the event of a convergent strabismus, the child is prescribed glasses that are close to complete vision correction.
At school, the child works a lot at close range ( reading, drawing, etc.), which in the case of farsightedness requires a lot of effort. For classes, glasses are prescribed to reduce eye strain. The degree of correction depends on many factors and remains at the discretion of the doctor.
Adolescents in high school and in adults with farsightedness make a correction close to complete. It should be borne in mind that a complete correction in many cases is difficult, but it is not necessary. In any case, the muscles partially compensate for the error, and they must also be kept in good shape.
After the age of 40, most people begin to develop presbyopia, which, as it progresses, excludes the possibility of accommodation and correction due to the work of the eye muscles. Therefore, such patients are usually prescribed two pairs of glasses ( for near and far), and the near glasses will be stronger.
Correction of farsightedness with contact lenses is done less often, as patients adapt to them worse ( compared to lenses for myopia). Contact lenses are prescribed for a large difference in visual acuity in the eyes.

With a large refractive error, surgical replacement of the lens is possible. In this case, the artificial lens will be implanted taking into account the refractive error. Currently, there are so-called multifocal lenses with a certain elasticity. This allows the muscles of the eye to compensate for small errors by changing the refractive power of the lens within 1 diopter. If a patient with farsightedness begins to develop a cataract ( which in any case will require the removal of the lens), surgical treatment is the best option. Laser vision correction is also possible.

At a consultation with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, a patient with farsightedness should measure the amount of accommodation. This will allow you to more accurately select the necessary glasses or contact lenses.

Vision correction for astigmatism

Astigmatism is more difficult to correct than normal nearsightedness or farsightedness. Due to changes in the shape of the cornea or lens, the optical system of the eye creates several foci that do not fall on the retina. For the necessary displacement of both foci and the formation of a normal image, cylindrical spectacle lenses or contact toric lenses are used.

When correcting astigmatism, the following rules are followed:

Children under 1 year of age do not correct astigmatism.
Up to 3 years, correction is required only if the error is more than 2 diopters ( sometimes at the discretion of the doctor and less).
In principle, to return one hundred percent vision with astigmatism, a complete correction is needed. However, many patients especially children) are difficult to adapt to astigmatic lenses. In these cases, it is recommended to initially select a lower cylinder force ( incomplete correction). With age, the patient changes several pairs of glasses, and each time his correction is brought closer to full. Thus, by adulthood, the patient receives a complete correction and tolerates it well ( as adaptation was gradual).
Many patients with cylindrical lenses have difficulty adapting. They need to be examined very carefully. Sometimes for good vision it is enough to choose the right spherical lens. But if the combination of a sphere and a cylinder gives better vision, it is necessary to explain to the patient that the adjustment period will pass and he will not experience any discomfort.
Patients who cannot tolerate casts are often prescribed soft toric lenses that provide a correction similar to a cast. With a refractive error of more than 3 diopters, already rigid toric lenses are prescribed, since soft ones will repeat the irregular shape of the cornea and will not give a complete correction. Both with hard and soft toric contact lenses, the patient feels much more comfortable than with cylindrical glasses.
In many cases, astigmatism can be corrected with laser vision correction. With the help of laser radiation, the shape of the cornea is leveled, and the patient's vision is significantly improved.
Another option for patients with astigmatism is the surgical implantation of a toric lens ( intraocular lens). When properly selected, it also gives a good correction, and it is easier for the patient himself, since it does not need to be removed and put on again. The downside is certain risks associated with the operation itself.
With large astigmatism, some patients are prescribed scleral lenses. Due to their large diameter, they cover not only the cornea, but also part of the sclera. Thus, correction with a scleral lens will not be affected by irregularities on the corneal surface.

Vision correction for presbyopia age-related decline in visual acuity)

Presbyopia is an extremely common problem that occurs in older people. It occurs due to problems with accommodation. The lens loses its elasticity, and the patient's near vision gradually deteriorates, although it may remain good at a distance for a long time. Correction of such a problem requires an individual approach.

When correcting vision in a patient with presbyopia, the following rules are followed:

The vast majority of people after 40 years of age need different vision correction for distance and for near. To do this, most often order 2 pairs of glasses or 2 pairs of contact lenses, which are changed as needed.
Progressive spectacles are the best solution for presbyopic patients. In them, the upper part of the lens is designed for distance vision correction, and the lower part is for near vision correction.
Another solution is multifocal contact lenses. Here, the focal length for near is located in the center of the lens, and for distance - on the periphery. Gradually, the patient gets used to using different tricks as needed.
With presbyopia, monovision vision correction is possible. In this case, different eyes give different vision correction ( even if both eyes have the same visual acuity). Correction is done in such a way that one eye will see well at a distance, and the other - close. For many patients, this can cause some discomfort, as problems with binocular vision are artificially created. Monovision correction is best suited for those people who have anisometropia from birth ( different visual acuity in different eyes). Such patients experience problems with binocular vision throughout their lives, and, therefore, it is easier to get used to different lenses.
In some cases, it is convenient for patients with presbyopia to use bifocals. They are cheaper than progressive ones, although they have a similar effect. These glasses have two zones, for distance and for near, which allows you not to constantly walk with two pairs of glasses. However, unlike progressive glasses, there is no intermediate, transitional zone. Bifocal glasses for presbyopia are convenient to use during work ( when the necessary distance is clearly defined). However, walking in them on the street or driving a car is very difficult.

It should also be noted that laser vision correction for presbyopia is usually not done. This is due to the fact that visual acuity at close range falls due to a decrease in the elasticity of the lens. By changing the shape of the cornea with a laser, you can correct the situation only for a certain time. In the long term, presbyopia will still progress, and vision will begin to deteriorate again. It is impossible to do laser correction again, since this procedure makes the cornea thinner, and it is infinitely impossible to thin it.

Correction of vision in strabismus ( strabismus)

Strabismus is a very serious problem, so its correction is carried out by individual specialists - strabismus. First of all, the cause of this violation should be determined. Depending on this, appropriate correction methods will be selected. In many cases, achieve full vision ( 100% and binocular) does not work.

For patients with strabismus, the following options for correcting vision are available:

Children with congenital strabismus need to be corrected. Otherwise, they will not develop binocular vision ( the brain does not learn to perceive the same image with both eyes), and it will simply be impossible to fix the problem in the future.
If strabismus began to develop against the background of a refractive error, it should be corrected. To do this, the child is assigned appropriate glasses. With myopia, divergent strabismus may appear, and it is corrected with minus glasses. With hypermetropia ( most common variant) develops convergent strabismus, and it is corrected with plus glasses.
In adults, strabismus may occur due to problems with the nervous system ( the nerves that control the external muscles of the eyeball are affected). This type of strabismus is called paralytic. It is sometimes the result of a stroke, injury, or a number of other medical conditions. In some patients, these changes are reversible and the strabismus may be temporary. Against the background of effective treatment, mobility and coordination of the muscles that rotate the eyeball are restored. Paralytic strabismus is treated by neurologists.
In severe cases of strabismus, patients may be prescribed prismatic glasses that shift the perceived image and partially return binocular vision. Such glasses are selected by strabologists.
Surgical correction of strabismus is possible, but has its drawbacks. Firstly, it is very difficult for the surgeon to calculate how much the muscle or its tendon needs to be “tightened” during the operation. Because of this, not all operations are successful. Sometimes the position of the eye only approaches normal. Secondly, if a child has not developed binocular vision, surgical correction will return it, and the eye will still not participate in the perception of visual information. In other words, the correction will be aesthetic. The patient will look normal, his eyes will move in sync, but the eye that was squinted before the operation will still not see anything.

Is it possible to correct vision if the eye "sees dimly"?

The causes of cloudy or blurred vision can be different. Indeed, with a large refractive error, a person may complain of blurry vision. In these cases, properly selected glasses or contact lenses will restore normal vision and remove the feeling of fog in front of the eye.

However, the reason may also lie in various pathologies of the eye, which require additional treatment. For example, with a cataract, the substance of the lens becomes cloudy, light passes through it worse, and a person has a feeling that the eye "sees cloudy". It is impossible to solve such a problem with glasses. An operation is required to replace the lens, which will restore the transparency of the optical media of the eye. A similar situation occurs with clouding of the sclera or some pathologies of the cornea. Only surgical treatment can help patients.

There are also a number of pathologies in which it is not possible to restore full vision. For example, with retinal degeneration or optic nerve atrophy, those parts of the eye that cannot be surgically replaced die. In these cases, the treatment is not aimed at restoring vision, but at maintaining the visual acuity that is currently available.

Thus, if the eye "sees dimly" the patient needs to contact an ophthalmologist who will conduct an examination and determine the cause of this problem. Only after the treatment of pathologies of the eyeball it will be possible to effectively select the necessary means of vision correction ( glasses, contact lenses, etc.).

Is it possible to stop the progressive deterioration of vision after childbirth?

According to statistics, many patients after childbirth have a deterioration in vision due to the fact that the existing myopia is progressing. In other words, the existing minus becomes larger. With hypermetropia ( farsightedness) such a relationship with childbirth is noted much less frequently. At the moment, it has not been reliably established what is the mechanism of myopia progression after childbirth. That is why there is no single effective treatment for such patients. If vision begins to deteriorate after childbirth, you should immediately consult a doctor to determine the possible causes and the necessary correction. In many cases, normal vision can only be restored by wearing glasses and contact lenses ( changes are irreversible).

Also, a significant deterioration in vision is possible with various complications of pregnancy. For example, with eclampsia or metabolic disorders, pathological changes in the retina or optic nerve may begin. Such conditions require urgent qualified assistance, as they can potentially lead to complete irreversible loss of vision.

What tests and examinations need to be done for successful vision correction?

In principle, vision correction does not imply any mandatory tests or analyzes. The selection of glasses or contact lenses can be carried out by all patients without exception, and this requires only a competent specialist and an office equipped with the necessary equipment. In parallel with the assessment of visual acuity, an ophthalmologist or optometrist may suspect any pathologies ( organ of vision or other body systems). In these cases, the selection of points may be delayed, and additional tests and examinations will be needed.

For example, if there are characteristic changes in the retina, the doctor may suspect that the patient has diabetes mellitus.
If the patient hears such a diagnosis for the first time, he is sent for a consultation with an endocrinologist, who can confirm the presence of this pathology. Glasses or contact lenses should be selected when the doctor is sure that vision will not deteriorate significantly in the near future for any reason. Otherwise, the patient will soon need a second correction.

Consultation with an ophthalmologist or optometrist

Actually, any vision correction begins with a consultation with an ophthalmologist or optometrist. It is these specialists who can expertly assess visual acuity and identify any problems. You can find them in almost all clinics or hospitals, as well as in specialized centers for vision correction. In most cases, in the absence of any disease, the patient will leave such a consultation with a prescription for glasses or contact lenses. If any pathology is found, the necessary treatment will be prescribed and a second consultation may be required.

For effective assistance at an ophthalmologist or optometrist consultation, the following information may be required:

honest answers to questions about complaints and symptoms ( for example, rapid fatigue, difficulty reading or working at a computer, etc.);
cases of visual impairment in relatives ( if known, specific diagnosis);
related health problems past infections, chronic diseases);
living and working conditions to understand what factors affect vision in everyday life);
visual acuity at the previous examination ( if you have a doctor's note);
a prescription for previous glasses or contact lenses;
extracts from operations for vision correction ( if any).

All this information will help the specialist better understand why the patient's vision has decreased. It makes no sense to hide any details, as the result may simply be incorrectly selected glasses, and the consultation will be in vain.

During a consultation about a decrease in visual acuity, the doctor usually uses the following examination methods:

Collection of anamnesis. Anamnesis is a detailed questioning of the patient to obtain subjective information. This helps the doctor to choose further examination tactics.
Determination of the dominant eye. For most people ( However, not all) one eye is leading. Its definition is necessary for some types of vision correction. If it is not possible to achieve the best sharpness in both eyes, the optimal correction is given to the leader. There are several simple tests that help doctors perform this procedure. The simplest is the keyhole. The patient extends both arms and places one palm on top of the other, leaving a small opening. Through this hole he looks at the doctor. The doctor, looking at the patient, will see exactly the leading eye.
Definition of strabismus. There is overt and covert strabismus that needs to be identified for optimal vision correction. Explicit strabismus can usually be seen with the naked eye. To determine the latent strabismus, there are a number of special tests.
Measurement of visual acuity. This is a standard procedure for which special tables are usually used. Most tables are calculated for a distance of 6 or 3 meters, but you can "recalculate" the result obtained for a different distance. There are many types of tables for different categories of patients ( adults, children, people who cannot read, etc.). Sometimes visual acuity is determined using a special sign projector. In a standard examination, the doctor first checks the visual acuity of the right eye, then the left, then both eyes. The eye that is not being tested must be covered with the palm of your hand or with a special flap, but do not close or press on it ( this may affect the test results.). At the end of this procedure, the doctor notes the visual acuity for each eye separately and with binocular vision ( both eyes). If the patient came to the consultation already with glasses, the doctor should check them. The patient is asked to put on the existing glasses, after which the same determination of visual acuity is carried out. When selecting reading glasses, special tables with fonts of various sizes are used. During the test, the patient should not squint or try to bring the table closer.
Interpupillary distance. Of great importance in the selection of glasses is the so-called interpupillary distance. This is the distance between the centers of the pupils, the points where most of the light rays normally fall. You need to determine it in order to correctly set the frame for the selection of glasses. The optical center of the test lenses must exactly coincide with the center of the pupil. In addition, the prescription for eyeglasses also indicates the interpupillary distance for the master optician. He will make lenses in such a way that they fit well in the selected frame ( regardless of its form) and provide the best vision correction. If you have certain skills, you can determine the interpupillary distance quite accurately using a regular ruler. There is also a special device - a pupillometer.
Autorefractometry. In principle, this procedure is analogous to checking visual acuity. It is carried out using a special apparatus. The patient sits down at the apparatus, puts his chin on a special stand and looks at the picture. It is important to look at a specific remote object ( which one - says the doctor). At this time, the specialist makes the necessary measurements. That is, the data are read objectively, without the direct participation of the patient. However, autorefractometry data is by no means the final result for which glasses or contact lenses are prescribed. Even the best device can give a significant error. It is especially difficult to obtain reliable data on visual acuity in children. That is why autorefractometry is carried out before the usual check ( using tables). By comparing the data obtained in both cases, the doctor will more accurately determine the visual acuity of the patient.
Definition of binocular and stereo vision. There are a number of tests to assess the quality of a patient's binocular and stereo vision. With some pathologies, the eyes may seem healthy, but the brain does not perceive visual information well and processes it incorrectly.
Subjective definition of refraction. This procedure is reduced, in fact, to the selection of the necessary lenses. The doctor, placing lenses from the standard set in front of the patient's eyes, tries to achieve the best visual acuity. Such selection of points is called subjective, since the result depends on the patient's answers ( how well he sees the shown letters or symbols). The selection of lenses can also be carried out using a special device - a phoropter, which automatically changes lenses. It should be noted that qualified vision correction does not end at this stage. The doctor must perform a few more screening tests to make sure that he did not make mistakes in the selection of glasses.
Retinoscopy. This procedure is an objective method for determining visual acuity. The doctor sits opposite the patient and with the help of a special device ( retinoscope) directs light rays into each eye in turn. The device allows you to approximately determine visual acuity. The accuracy of this method is quite high and depends on the skills and experience of the specialist. The procedure is considered objective, as it does not depend on the responses or actions of the patient.
Pinhole test. This test is performed after the selection of the necessary lenses. The doctor closes one eye of the patient with a special flap, and places a similar flap in front of the other, but with a small hole ( diameter approx. 1 – 1.5 mm). Through this hole, the patient's vision is checked using a table. If the visual acuity on the Pinhole test matches the visual acuity of the selected lenses, the glasses have been fitted correctly. If vision improves significantly through this hole, the lenses are not considered to be the best fit and the physician should recheck the results. The patient in theory can get better vision.
Keratometry. This examination is usually done in parallel with autorefractometry. The device measures the diameter, thickness and radius of the cornea. This gives the doctor additional information about why the patient's vision may have deteriorated. This examination is especially important before laser vision correction, as well as when choosing contact lenses.

There are also a number of other tests that a specialist can perform during the consultation, but they are only necessary if there are certain indications. For example, patients after 35-40 years of age should definitely measure

Prior to the active popularization of contact lenses in the 1950s, glasses were the only way to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism for seven centuries. Fortunately, this time has passed, and today in the arsenal of an ophthalmic surgeon there are a huge number of ways to correct visual impairment. An important role in such operations is played by the excimer laser due to the speed, painlessness and effectiveness of operations performed today with its help.

Excimer laser vision correction using laser keratomileusis technology () and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) uses laser energy to change the curvature of the cornea - the front wall of the eye, the main role of which is to conduct and focus light on the retina, resulting in an image of surrounding objects.

Indications for laser vision correction

Laser vision correction helps patients with the following refractive errors:

Nearsightedness or myopia. People with this pathology can see close objects well, while objects located at a distance are not clearly visible. This is due to the large length of the eyeball or the curvature of the cornea. The refraction of light rays occurs in such a way that they are focused in front of the retina. This causes visual discomfort.

Hypermetropia or farsightedness. In this case, due to the insufficient length of the eyeball or the irregular curvature of the cornea, the light rays are weakly refracted, and the focus of the image is behind the retina. A person sees distant objects well, problems arise with close objects.

Astigmatism is a visual impairment due to an irregular shape of the cornea of the eye. There are several focus points, and the picture before your eyes becomes fuzzy.

The combination of several types of refractive disorders.

Laser vision correction is not suitable for people with presbyopia or "age-related farsightedness". This condition develops in people over 40-45 years old and is corrected with bifocal or progressive glasses, refractive lens replacement. Changes in vision are not related to the length of the eyeball or the shape of the cornea. Violations develop due to the loss of the lens of its elasticity and ability to accommodate, and focus on nearby objects.

A patient wishing to undergo laser vision correction should pay attention to the following criteria:

Myopia between -0.5 and -14.0 diopters. An indicator of more than 14.0 diopters is an indication for refractive lens replacement.

Astigmatism< 5,0 диоптрий.

Hypermetropia< +6,0 диоптрий.

The absence of contraindications, the description of which will be devoted to the next section of the article.

The desire of the patient to improve vision and get rid of glasses and contact lenses or the inability to wear them.

Indications and contraindications for laser correction in each case are considered individually. However, there are also general provisions about situations where such an effect on the cornea is temporarily or permanently contraindicated:

The age of the patient is under 18 for myopia and hyperopia and under 21 for astigmatism. Such age restrictions are associated with the impossibility of correcting with the continued growth of the eyeball.

Lack of stable refraction for one year. This means that during the last year there were no changes in the selection of glasses or contact lenses. Sometimes this period can be shortened at the discretion of the attending physician.

Diseases of the organ of vision such as keratoconus, herpetic keratitis, other diseases or scars on the cornea, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal diseases.

"Thin cornea". Corneal thickness less than 500 microns is a contraindication to laser correction.

Some systemic diseases - systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a tendency to form keloid scars, severe diabetic retinopathy.

Pregnancy and lactation are temporary contraindications.

Each patient who decides to undergo vision correction and is suitable for this procedure according to all medical criteria must undergo preoperative preparation and examination.

The following diagnostic measures are relevant:

Pachymetry or measuring the thickness of the cornea. This indicator is extremely important. If the cornea is too thin during the operation, inadequate correction or the development of severe complications is possible.

Keratotopography, or an accurate map of the surface of the cornea, is necessary to detect other conditions (such as keratoconus) that are contraindicated or may significantly worsen the results of surgery.

Measurement of pupil size in the dark and in the light.

Refractive errors are checked before and after drug-induced pupillary dilation. This helps to ensure the stability of the violations.

An examination is carried out for glaucoma, cataracts and a careful examination of the fundus and peripheral parts of the retina.

If the patient wears hard or soft contact lenses, he is asked to stop using them a few days before the examination and before surgery. Lenses can change the surface of the cornea and distort examination results. The operation is performed on an outpatient basis, no other special preparation is required.

Varieties of the operation

Over the past 25 years, there has been a significant improvement in technologies, consumables and instruments in refractive microsurgery. For example, an operation such as radical keratotomy is mostly of historical significance. Most of the interventions are performed using laser systems. Consider the main types of laser correction.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

This operation was the first successful attempt to remove (ablate) tissue directly on the surface of the eyeball in order to change the curvature of the cornea. First performed in the 1980s, the operation has not lost its relevance today. There are studies confirming that the safety and effectiveness of this procedure is comparable to other laser correction methods.

During PRK, a thin surface layer of cells (corneal epithelium) is removed mechanically, chemically, or with a laser. Then high-energy beams act on the stroma of the cornea, causing a change in its curvature. This is how the refraction of the operated eye changes. Within a few days after the operation, regeneration of the superficial corneal epithelium occurs, since epithelial cells tend to constantly divide, renewing the surface of the cornea. The PRK option is relevant for patients with thin corneas that are not suitable for other interventions.

PRK is performed on an outpatient basis in a specialized eye clinic. Local anesthesia, the procedure does not cause significant discomfort in patients.

Laser Intrastromal Keratomileusis (LASIK)

The LASIK procedure is a more modern method for correcting refractive errors. Its distinctive feature is the formation of the so-called corneal flap. That is, the epithelial layer is not removed, as in the case of PRK, but is only incised and taken aside in the form of a “lid”. A special instrument called a microkeratome is used to form the flap. A femtosecond laser can also be used for this purpose. Thus, access to the corneal stroma is provided.

Then, using an excimer laser, the specialist performs ablation of part of the stroma in order to change the shape of the cornea. The flap laid aside is returned to its place, after which gradual healing occurs. The advantage of LASIK compared to PRK is the complete absence of discomfort immediately after the operation, as well as the restoration of vision in a shorter time (the first results are visible in a day).

Postoperative period, a reminder to the patient

The success of any operation depends not only on the manipulations of the surgeon, but also on the behavior of the patient in the postoperative period, compliance with all recommendations and precautions.

Immediately after the end of the intervention, the surgeon will ask you to stay in the clinic for a short-term observation. After a short rest, you can go home. Think in advance who can pick you up, or call a taxi. Burning sensation, itching or moderate pain should not cause concern - such manifestations are the norm in the first postoperative day. To prevent infectious complications and for anti-inflammatory purposes, the specialist prescribes antibiotics and local glucocorticosteroids.

What other rules of conduct should be remembered:

Driving is prohibited until your vision is restored to the required level. This can only be established by a specialist after the next inspection. It is undesirable to drive without the permission of an ophthalmologist.

Take care of your eyes. During the first day, a protective bandage is used. In the future, avoid direct traumatic effects, do not scratch or rub your eyes.

During hygiene procedures and washing in the bathroom, make sure that shampoo and other detergents do not get into the eye.

Eye makeup can be applied no earlier than one week after surgery.

Avoid intense physical activity and sports for two weeks.

With a pool and sauna, you should also wait for 1-2 weeks.

In addition to the above general rules, ask your doctor about your individual characteristics.

Risks and consequences of the operation

Millions of people undergo laser vision correction surgery every year. And although the majority of such manipulations pass without complications, nevertheless, this surgical intervention has certain risks of complications. The surgeon always tells the patient about them on the eve of the operation, after which the latter signs the informed consent form.

Possible complications of laser vision correction:

Temporary discomfort and visual disturbances usually resolve as the postoperative wound heals.

Dry eye syndrome. The operation leads to a temporary decrease in the production of tear fluid. This causes discomfort and may impair vision. As a rule, they level out within the first month. For this period, doctors recommend using eye drops with a substitute for natural tears.

Decreased night vision, glare, halo effect and double vision. Such adverse reactions stop on their own within a few weeks.

Astigmatism occurs when corneal tissue is removed unevenly. Additional surgical correction or conservative treatment is possible.

infectious complications.

Visual impairment due to a number of reasons, including over-correction or under-correction.

Restoration of vision

Laser vision correction, as a rule, implies such a level of change in sharpness that patients refuse to use glasses and contact lenses previously used. The chance of achieving 100% visual acuity is very real thanks to modern refractive surgery technologies.

Restoration of vision occurs as the LASIK flap heals or epithelium regenerates during PRK surgery. The result also depends on the underlying disease. The most significant results in patients with a low degree of myopia. With severe myopia, as well as a combination of it or farsightedness with astigmatism, the outcome is less predictable.

The cost of laser vision correction, operations under the MHI policy

Service		price
the code	title
20.06 Laser vision correction (per eye)
2006001	LASIK/Super LASIK for myopia and hypermetropia	26500
2006002	LASIK/Super LASIK for myopia and hypermetropia with astigmatism	28500
2006003		32500
2006004	LASIK Super Vision	36000
2006005	Additional correction after operations performed in other clinics	38000
2006006	17500
2006007	LASIK/Super LASIK, professor, MD	44000
2006008	Super-Lasik operation (promotion, for both eyes)	32000
2006010	Laser vision correction (promotion, for both eyes)	35000
2006011	LASIK/Super LASIK for mixed astigmatism	35000

The issue of free laser vision correction is often considered by insurance organizations not in favor of the patient. Insurers classify these operations as correcting cosmetic defects. And patients perform such interventions at their own expense.

The vast majority of ophthalmological clinics perform laser correction on a fee basis. The price for such a service depends on the clinic, equipment and specialists conducting it. The cost of laser vision correction ranges from 25,000 to 35,000 rubles per eye. Employed categories of patients after the preliminary writing of the application can return the tax deduction in the amount of 13%.

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

The most reputable ophthalmological clinics are located in these cities. When choosing a clinic where you plan to perform laser vision correction surgery, you should pay attention not only and not so much to the cost of the operation. The main criteria for choosing the right clinic are the technical equipment of the clinic, the availability of modern equipment and consumables, the authority of the clinic, the qualifications and experience of a refractive surgeon.

Laser vision correction is an ideal chance for patients with myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism to correct their vision, and, consequently, significantly improve their quality of life. The decision to perform the operation is made, first of all, by the patient. But those who decide to take such a step are satisfied with the result.

Types of laser vision correction. There is no better treatment! Laser vision correction: what is it, varieties. What tests and examinations do you need to undergo for successful vision correction?

PRK

Lasik

EPI-LASIK

Contraindications

Some misconceptions

Types of vision correction

Indications and contraindications for laser vision correction

Types of laser vision correction

Consequences of the laser vision correction procedure

Who is shown?

Contraindications

How is the operation going?

Recovery period - what after the operation?

What will happen to the eyes in 10 years?

Advantages of laser vision correction

Minuses

Price

PRK

Lasik

EPI-LASIK

Contraindications

Some misconceptions

Photorefractive keratectomy

Laser intrastromal keratomyelosis

Video: how laser vision correction is done

With myopia

With farsightedness

With astigmatism

Operation LASIK (LASIK) - whether to do vision correction?

LASIK - How is the operation performed?

After vision correction - recovery

For better recovery after correction, it is important to follow a number of rules.

The disadvantages of vision correction include a number of contraindications

I have vision problems, do I really need surgery?

What is the difference between laser correction methods?

ReLEX SMILE (SMILE)

LASIK (LASIK) or its variety Femto-LASIK (femto-LASIK)

PRK (PRK)

It is safe?

It's hard for me to decide on the operation, I'm afraid

How does it go? What if I blink?

They say that after these operations there are many optical side effects.

But suddenly I can not do such an operation?

Why the SMILE EYES clinic :)?

What is laser vision correction

Indications and contraindications for the procedure

Possible Complications

How is the procedure carried out

Methods of laser vision correction

How much does laser vision correction cost?

Vision correction - what is it? When is it needed? Analyzes and examinations for successful correction

What does vision correction mean?

What diseases require vision correction?

Which doctors do vision correction?

Is it possible to correct vision in only one eye?

What type of vision needs correction?

Where to go for vision correction? ( centers, clinics, institutes, etc.)

Do they do vision correction under the compulsory medical insurance policy ( compulsory health insurance) is free?

What disorders most often require vision correction?

Vision correction for nearsightedness myopia)

Correction of vision for farsightedness ( hypermetropia)

Vision correction for astigmatism

Vision correction for presbyopia age-related decline in visual acuity)

Correction of vision in strabismus ( strabismus)

Is it possible to correct vision if the eye "sees dimly"?

Is it possible to stop the progressive deterioration of vision after childbirth?

What tests and examinations need to be done for successful vision correction?

Consultation with an ophthalmologist or optometrist

Indications for laser vision correction

Varieties of the operation

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Laser Intrastromal Keratomileusis (LASIK)

Postoperative period, a reminder to the patient

Risks and consequences of the operation

Restoration of vision

The cost of laser vision correction, operations under the MHI policy

Clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg

Video: PRK laser vision correction