LASIK Eye Surgery In Johannesburg, South Africa
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is one of the most commonly performed laser eye surgeries worldwide. LASIK procedures can correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to focus light correctly on the retina to sharpen vision. Our practice specializes in blade free laser vision correction and uses the latest technology to achieve this.
Preparing For LASIK
Prior to surgery, our surgical team will conduct an eye examination and collect important information about your eyes. This exam involves measuring your refractive error and corneal thickness as well as corneal mapping, glaucoma testing, and other general eye health tests. Once you have been deemed a good candidate for LASIK, you will meet with our doctors. They will answer any questions you may have about the procedure and address any of your concerns. When scheduling your initial evaluation, let our staff know if you regularly wear contact lenses. Depending on the type, these may need to be removed for several days or weeks before your appointment.
LASIK Laser Eye Surgery Procedure
On the day of surgery, numbing eye drops are used and the area around the eye is disinfected. A lid speculum gently keeps the eyelids open while our doctors create a thin corneal flap with the Carl Zeiss Visumax femtosecond laser. This blade free laser procedure is the safest and most accurate way to create a LASIK flap. Our doctors will adjust the excimer laser to make the proper corrections for your unique prescription. You will be asked to focus on a target light for a moment while our doctors looks at the process through a microscope. The SCHWIND AMARIS laser has a built-in eye tracking system that compensates for eye movements during the procedure, reducing the possibility of complications.
Then, the system-directed laser precisely reshapes the cornea in seconds. Once the reshaping process is finished, the corneal flap is returned to its original position. Due to the nature of corneal tissue, once it is placed back over the eye it begins to bond naturally, and sutures are not needed.
The entire procedure is completed in just minutes, with very little recovery time. For most patients, the procedure is virtually painless and results can be experienced as soon as the day after surgery.
LASIK Results
Immediately after surgery, some patients’ vision will be blurry while others notice sharper vision right after the procedure. Most patients can see clearly as early as the morning after surgery. Your vision will continue to stabilize and improve for a few days, but a majority of patients return to work the following day.
LASIK Recovery
Following LASIK surgery, you will need to relax for the remainder of the day. Avoid rubbing or irritating your eyes with soap, water, or cosmetics. Our doctors will prescribe medication and eye drops to be used after surgery. You should refrain from intense exercise for a week to avoid healing complications. Our staff will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your eyes after surgery. Our doctors will see you for several post-operative appointments to check the progress of your recovery.
Our practice also offers ReLEx SMILE, TransPRK and phakic IOLs for patients who do not qualify for LASIK surgery.