Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors — myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism. Modern procedures are safe and effective for the right candidate, and are widely available at Indian eye hospitals. Being the right candidate is the key — not everyone with glasses is suitable.

The main procedures

• LASIK — a corneal flap is lifted, laser reshapes the cornea underneath, flap is replaced. Fast visual recovery.
• Femto-LASIK / bladeless LASIK — flap made with a laser (not blade).
• PRK / LASEK — surface ablation, no flap. Slower recovery but useful in thin cornea or sports/armed-forces candidates.
• SMILE — keyhole laser procedure, small corneal incision. Minimal dry eye.
• ICL (implantable contact lens) — not a laser, but a lens placed inside the eye for very high myopia or thin corneas.

Who's generally suitable

• Age ≥ 18 with a stable prescription for at least a year.
• Adequate cornea thickness; no keratoconus; no active eye disease.
• Realistic expectations — presbyopia will still come around 40; may still need reading glasses later.

Who should think twice

• Active dry eye, severe allergic eye disease.
• Keratoconus or suspicious corneal topography.
• Poorly controlled diabetes, autoimmune disease.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (hormonal refractive changes).
• Unrealistic expectations or a dislike of glasses at any cost.

Before saying yes

• Choose an established eye hospital with trained refractive surgeons; ask about the equipment generation and surgeon case volume.
• Insist on a thorough pre-op screening (corneal topography, pachymetry, dry-eye assessment).
• Discuss side effects — temporary dry eye, glare, halos, rarely need for retreatment.
• Don't be rushed by festive-season "offers".