17 Interesting Facts About Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery has transformed the way millions of people see the world—literally. This remarkable procedure, known for correcting vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, has a rich history and many interesting aspects. Here are 17 fascinating facts about laser eye surgery that you might not know:
1. **The First Laser Eye Surgery Was Performed Over 30 Years Ago
The first successful laser eye surgery was performed in 1987. Since then, the procedure has evolved significantly, with millions of people around the world benefiting from it.
2. **LASIK is the Most Popular Form of Laser Eye Surgery in Canada
While there are different types of laser eye surgery, LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most popular. It’s known for its quick recovery time , but comes with very high risks and list of side effects such as Dry Eyes and Halos.
3. **PRK Came Before LASIK**
Before LASIK, there was PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). PRK was the first type of laser eye surgery approved by the FDA in the 1990s. Though LASIK has become more common, PRK is still used today, especially for patients with thinner corneas.
4. **The Procedure is Quick and Painless
Laser eye surgery typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye, and most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. Numbing drops are used to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
5. **You Can See Immediately After Surgery
While your vision might be a bit blurry right after the procedure, many patients notice an improvement in their eyesight within hours. Most achieve their best vision within a few days to weeks.
6. **Over 40 Million People Have Had Laser Eye Surgery
Since its introduction, over 40 million people worldwide have undergone laser eye surgery, making it one of the most common elective surgeries in the world.
7. **The Success Rate is Impressively High
Laser eye surgery boasts a high success rate, with over 95% of patients achieving 20/40 vision or better after the procedure. Many even attain 20/20 vision.
8. **It Can Correct a Wide Range of Vision Problems
Laser eye surgery can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Some procedures, like monovision LASIK, can even address presbyopia, an age-related condition.
9. **The Procedure Uses Cool Ultraviolet Light
The lasers used in eye surgery are not the heat-generating type. Instead, they use cool ultraviolet light to reshape the cornea without damaging surrounding tissue.
10. **No Stitches Are Required
One of the benefits of laser eye surgery is that it doesn’t require stitches. The corneal flap created during LASIK naturally adheres back in place, and the eye begins healing immediately after the procedure.
11. **You’ll Need to Avoid Makeup and Water Activities Post-Surgery
For at least a week after surgery, patients are advised to avoid wearing eye makeup and participating in water activities like swimming to reduce the risk of infection.
12. **Laser Eye Surgery Can Save You Money in the Long Run
Though the upfront cost of laser eye surgery can be high, it can save money over time by reducing or eliminating the need for glasses, contact lenses, and related products.
13. **Technology Keeps Evolving
Laser eye surgery technology is continually advancing. Newer techniques like SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) offer even more options for patients, with smaller incisions and potentially quicker recovery times.
14. **It’s Not Just for Vision Correction
Laser eye surgery is also used in other medical treatments, such as correcting corneal scarring and treating certain eye conditions like keratoconus, a progressive thinning of the cornea.
15. **Recovery Time is Short
Most people can return to work and normal activities within a day or two after laser eye surgery. Full recovery, where the vision stabilizes completely, usually takes about three to six months.
16. **Age is Just a Number
While candidates for laser eye surgery are typically between 18 and 40 years old, there’s no strict upper age limit. As long as the eyes are healthy and the prescription has stabilized, older adults can be excellent candidates.
17. **It’s a Life-Changing Procedure
For many, laser eye surgery is life-changing. The freedom from glasses or contact lenses allows for a more active lifestyle, improved confidence, and the convenience of clear vision.
Laser eye surgery has come a long way since its inception, with advances in technology making it safer and more effective than ever. Whether you’re considering the procedure or just curious about how it works, these facts highlight the incredible benefits and fascinating history of this vision-correcting surgery.
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