A patient with short-sightedness can clear see objects up close, but not at a distance. A patient with long sightedness has the opposite problem; objects both up close and the distance will appear blurred. Astigmatism is an imperfection in the curvature of the eye, which causes vision to be blurred at all distances.In each case, the goal is to reduce a patient’s dependence on glasses.The treatment is most commonly performed for short-sightedness.
During laser vision correction, a laser precisely alters the contour of the front surface of the eye (the cornea), to treat problems such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism.
In this section
Laser Eye Surgery Laser Vision Correction Procedure Laser Eye Surgery Outcomes & Expectations Specific Circumstances Increased Risk of Eye Trauma Thin Corneas Laser Eye Surgery FAQs Keratoconus & Abnormal Corneal Topography How much does Laser Eye Surgery cost? How will my eyes be assessed? What is Laser Vision Correction? When should I have Laser Vision Correction? What should I expect after surgery?
Surgery Process
The purpose of this assessment is to determine the quality of vision and the status of your eye health.
All patients have a full vision, general medical and eye assessment at their clinic consultation. Initially they will see the orthoptist, who has particular expertise in performing the full formal vision assessment. They then see the ophthalmologist, who makes a more detailed assessment, particularly with respect to those aspects relevant to potential surgery. The purpose of this assessment is to determine the quality of vision and the status of your eye health.
Eye surgery is almost always done as a day procedure under local anaesthetic.
It is unnecessary to stay overnight but you will need to put aside half a day. You will lie flat and may have some sensation of the procedure, although this is not painful. You will feel Dr Connell resting his hand on your forehead and you will be able to communicate fully with him.
At the completion of the procedure you will be given some food, a cup of tea or coffee and allowed to travel home with your eye covered with a clear protective shield. You will need someone to accompany you. It is normal to have a foreign-body sensation, similar to sand in the eye. The eye will also water and tears will roll down the face. Paracetamol should be taken if there is any discomfort.
The impact on your day to day life following the surgery is minimal.
Post operative drops are initially instilled four times per day and then reduced. Their duration of use depends on the procedure. Follow-up arrangements with Dr Connell will be made clear prior to surgery. Patients will ultimately consult their optometrist for ongoing care thereafter.
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