For those considering laser eye surgery, understanding the different options available is essential to making an informed decision. The three procedures are Lenticular Extraction, LASIK, and Surface Laser. Ophthalmologist Mr. Darcy will guide you in choosing the most suitable procedure to achieve your best visual outcome. This decision is based on a thorough clinical evaluation and a personalised assessment of your lifestyle and vision goals.
Lenticular Extraction
Lenticular Extraction, sometimes called SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), is the most modern method of performing laser eye surgery. This procedure delivers excellent results with a painless and rapid recovery.
Using one advanced laser, tiny air bubbles are used to precisely seperate a contact lens-shaped piece of corneal tissue. This tissue is then removed, correcting vision without the need for blades or flaps—just air bubbles. The minimally invasive nature of this method makes it a safe and effective choice for many patients.
Benefits of Lenticular Extraction:
- Minimally invasive: No corneal flap is created, reducing the risk of flap-related complications.
- Little to no disruption of the front surface of the eye: Comfortable recovery post treatment.
- Faster recovery: Many patients experience a quicker return to normal activities.
- Less dry eye risk: Since fewer corneal nerves are disrupted compared to LASIK, there is a lower chance of post-surgery dry eye.
- Suitable for active lifestyles: The small incision reduces the risk of dislodging the flap, making it ideal for athletes or those with active jobs.
Lenticular Extraction is best suited for people with mild to moderate myopia (short-sightedness) even with astigmatism, those with an active lifestyle, suffer with dry eyes and those looking for a flap-free laser eye surgery option
LASIK Surgery
LASIK is one of the most popular and well-known laser eye surgeries. It involves one laser creating a thin flap on the cornea, while another laser reshapes the underlying tissue, to correct vision and then the flap is repositioned.
Benefits of LASIK:
- Quick and painless procedure: The surgery typically takes only 20-30 minutes for both eyes, and your eyes are anesthetised with eye drops throughout.
- Rapid recovery: Many patients notice improved vision within a few hours, with full clarity in a day or two.
- Effective for a range of prescriptions: LASIK can correct myopia, hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism.
- Excellent results: A proven record of excellent results, for tens of millions of people, over more than 25 years.
Surface Laser (PRK, LASEK, TransPRK)
Surface laser procedures, such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy), and TransPRK, involve reshaping the cornea without creating a flap or a lenticule . Instead, the outermost layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed, laser reshaping is performed and the epithelium regenerates over 24 to 48 hours.
Benefits of Surface Laser Surgery:
- No flap creation: Ideal for individuals with thin corneas or those prone to physical contact.
- Lower risk of flap complications: Since no flap is involved, risks associated with flap dislocation are eliminated.
- Effective for a wide range of vision issues: Suitable for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, plus those individuals with more complex or usually shaped corneas.
The best laser eye surgery procedure depends on your eye health, corneal size and shape, lifestyle, and prescription. Careful examination of an individuals vision, diagnostic scans and assessment of lifestyle, vision aspirations and current frustrations, help our experts diagnose the safest, most effective and best suited treatment.
Get in Touch
If you’re considering laser eye surgery and would like expert guidance, Kieren Darcy is here to help. He provides his private practice from the prestigious Vision Care Clinic, an independent clinic located in the heart of Clifton, Bristol. With his expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, you can feel confident in receiving the best care for your vision needs. To get in touch, call 0117 905 7722.