Q&A series: Which type of laser eye surgery is best for me?

The choice of various laser eye surgery procedures can be overwhelming when first researching your different options so here LaserVision outline the different types of laser eye surgeries available and which may be suitable for you. LaserVision offer four types of laser vision correction to correct refractive errors which vary in technique to suit varying needs. The differences in procedure and recovery time are detailed below.

LASIK

LASIK gives fast visual recovery with little discomfort: for these reasons it is the most common choice for many people. It involves the creation of a very thin and precise LASIK flap: it may not be appropriate if you participate in contact-sports or if your cornea is thinner than normal. On the other hand for some refractive errors, LASIK is the only choice.

LASEK

LASEK does not require flap or lenticule creation so in many ways is the simplest treatment. However, visual recovery is slower and your eye can be uncomfortable during the early post-operative period. LASEK may be the treatment of choice for thin corneas.  LASEK is best suited to correction of low to moderate degrees of short-sight.

SupraLASE™

SupraLase uses an unique non touch technique,  in which an advanced laser is used throughout to initially remove the surface cell layer (the epithelium) and then reshape the cornea for vision correction. It avoids the potential for any flap complications either during or after surgery and there is less risk of long-term corneal ectasia. Vision recovery takes longer compared to LASIK however is often recommended for patients with thin corneas or dry eyes, for those who participate in contact sports and who have an enhanced risk of injury such as those in the armed forces.

Are there any new techniques in laser eye surgery?

Yes! ReLEx SMILE are exciting new techniques that share many of the advantages as LASIK but have less of an impact on corneal strength so the contact-sport and corneal thickness issues are less relevant. ReLEx can at the moment only be used for treatment of short-sight.

How do I know which laser eye surgery procedure is best for me?

A final decision about which treatment to have can only be made after a full ophthalmic examination and discussion with your consultant surgeon at your initial consultation with us. The decision must consider factors such as your prescription and many aspects of your ocular examination but also your personal choice. Once a recommendation about which procedure is best suited to you and your eyes, LaserVision can guarantee you will feel no pressure to proceed with surgery so you are free to make the decision that is right for you.

All laser eye surgery performed by LaserVision is personalised to best meet the needs of our patients which are all carried out within our hospital based clinics. This personalised service within our safe hospital environments are just one of the many reasons we stand out from the high street, find out more about why LaserVision are different.

What’s next?

Request a FREE brochure to help you consider your options further.

Book a consultation at your nearest LaserVision clinic to discuss your options with a consultant surgeon.