Refractive surgery is a type of eye surgery used to remove the dependence on eye glasses or contact lenses. This typically involves surgical procedures intended to alter of fix corneal or cataract related problems. Lasers are a very common tool used for the reshaping of the cornea. It can also be used to treat eye disorders such as astigmatism or myopia.

Excimer laser

The laser used is called an excimer laser, also known as an exciplex laser. It is commonly used for most surgical procedures involving the eye. It emits an ultraviolet light that is absorbed easily by both organic compounds and biological matter. The laser uses energy to remove materials by a process called ablation. The process is easier to control making it ideal for situations where precision is a necessity. It is generally preferred as is does not involve burning or cutting different material. The laser system used for eye surgeries is called LASIK or LASEK.

Various techniques for Refractive Surgery

There are various techniques related to this procedure. One of which is categorized as a flap procedure. In this type, an excimer laser is used to remove a thin flap on the corneal tissue. The flap is then replaced. Another type is classified into surface procedures. This typically involves the use of the excimer laser to reshape parts of the cornea. Yet another type is the corneal incision. As the name implies, incisions are done to alter the shape of the cornea.

Various technological advancements Refractive Surgery

Various technological advancements have made this procedure much safer compared to before. It is also more affordable which has led to more and more patients opting for this procedure. However, there are some risks involved for patients which medical ailments such as diabetes or glaucoma.

Eye disease Keratoconus

An eye disease called Keratoconus causes a thinning of the cornea. In cases such as this, refractive surgery is strongly discouraged as tinkering with the cornea may cause the disease to worsen.