Types of Refractive Surgery
LASIK
LASIK is a widely performed procedure where a precise laser is used to create a thin flap in the cornea. The flap is then lifted, and the underlying corneal tissue is reshaped to correct refractive errors. The flap is then repositioned, allowing for rapid healing and minimal discomfort.
Advanced Surface Ablation
Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) is a laser eye surgery technique that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea's surface without creating a flap, unlike LASIK. This procedure offers advantages for patients with thinner corneas or those involved in contact sports.
Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs)
ICLs are an option for individuals with moderate to severe myopia or hyperopia who are not suitable candidates for laser vision correction. These lenses are surgically implanted between the iris and natural lens of the eye to correct refractive errors.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):
SMILE is a newer refractive surgery technique that uses a femtosecond laser to create a small, precise disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea. The lenticule is then removed through a small incision, altering the shape of the cornea to correct refractive errors.
LASIKXtra
LASIKXtra surgery is a LASIK procedure which includes the additional step of cross-linking the cornea during the LASIK surgery. It is a painless process that which takes about two minutes in total on top of the normal LASIK surgery time.
The aim of LASIKXtra eye surgery is similar to LASIK, which is to reduce spectacle or contact lens dependence. However, through the additional step of cross-linking, the procedure aims to strengthen the cornea after LASIK surgery, thereby reducing the risk of cornea ectasia and regression.