Types of Eye Surgeries & What to Expect

If you're considering eye surgery to correct your vision, you might have encountered terms like LASIK, PRK, and SMILE. These are all refractive eye surgeries designed to improve vision by reshaping the cornea.

Each procedure has a unique approach and potential outcomes, so let's examine each in more detail in this article.

Types of Refractive Eye Surgeries

Here are the most common types of refractive surgeries:

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK involves creating a flap on your cornea. This flap is gently folded back, revealing the inner layer.

Then, a laser is used to reshape this inner layer, correcting your vision. Finally, the doctor puts the flap back in place, and it heals naturally without stitches.

• Recovery Time. When it comes to recovery, LASIK usually takes the gold medal. Most people notice a significant improvement in their vision within 24 hours and can return to their usual activities quickly.
• Outcomes. LASIK generally provides excellent results, with many people achieving 20/20 vision or better. It is effective for correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

In PRK, instead of creating a flap, the surgeon gently removes the very outer layer of your cornea. The laser then reshapes the underlying cornea to improve your vision. A bandage contact lens is placed on your eye to protect it while it heals.

• Recovery Time. PRK has a slightly longer recovery period than LASIK. This is because the outer layer of the cornea needs time to regenerate. 
• Outcomes. PRK offers similar long-term outcomes to LASIK, with people typically achieving clear vision. It's often recommended for those with thinner corneas or those who engage in contact sports, as it avoids creating a corneal flap.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

SMILE is the newest of the three procedures and is the most minimally invasive. A laser creates a tiny, lens-shaped piece of tissue within your cornea called a lenticule.

This lenticule is then removed through a very small incision, reshaping your cornea.

• Recovery Time. SMILE’s recovery time falls somewhere between LASIK and PRK. Your vision will usually stabilize within a week.
• Outcomes. SMILE provides effective vision correction, particularly for myopia and mild astigmatism. It has a high satisfaction rate and is noted for its minimally invasive nature, which may result in less dry eye discomfort than LASIK.

What are the Surgery Options for Cataracts?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cataracts, you may be understandably concerned about the surgery and recovery process. However, cataract surgery is a very common and successful procedure. 

These are the two main techniques to help you make an informed decision:

• Phacoemulsification (Phaco). This is the most common cataract surgery technique. It involves using a small ultrasound probe to gently break up the cloudy lens (cataract) into tiny fragments. These fragments are then suctioned out through a small incision, creating a clear path for light to enter the eye.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (LACS). A newer technique, LACS employs a laser to create precise incisions and soften the cataract, facilitating its removal. The remainder of the procedure is similar to phacoemulsification.

What are the Outcomes and Recovery for Cataract Surgery?

Both techniques are highly effective in restoring clear vision. Most people experience a significant improvement in their eyesight within a few days of surgery.

Complete recovery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, but you can resume normal activities within a day or two.

How to Choose the Right Cataract Surgery

Both phacoemulsification and LACS achieve comparable visual outcomes. However, LACS may offer certain advantages, such as greater incision precision, a slightly faster recovery, and potentially more accurate vision correction, especially in cases with astigmatism.

The optimal choice between the two methods depends on individual factors, such as:

• The specific eye condition
• Severity of the cataract
• Presence of other eye problems
• Lifestyle preferences

Your eye doctor will discuss these aspects to determine the most suitable technique for your case.

Advanced Eye Surgeries for Specific Conditions

Beyond common procedures like LASIK and cataract surgery, many innovative eye surgeries treat various conditions. These advancements have transformed eye care, offering hope and enhanced quality of life.

We listed other eye conditions with the corresponding surgery to treat them:

Glaucoma

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS), such as iStent or Hydrus implants, have revolutionized glaucoma treatment.

These gentler procedures typically involve quicker recovery times and fewer complications than traditional surgeries. By improving fluid drainage from the eye, they reduce pressure and protect the optic nerve.

Retinal Disorders

Conditions like retinal detachment or macular holes can affect the retina. Surgical techniques and instrumentation advancements have made these delicate procedures safer and more effective. 

Surgeons now utilize smaller instruments and high-definition imaging systems for precise repairs. This helps reduce complications and optimize visual outcomes for those with retinal disorders.

Corneal Diseases

Conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges, can significantly impact vision. Modern corneal transplants, such as DMEK, offer a solution. 

This technique involves transplanting only the innermost corneal layer. It results in faster healing, lower rejection risk, and improved vision.

Choosing the right eye surgery is a pivotal decision, and understanding your options is key. Whether it's LASIK, PRK, or SMILE for vision correction, or Phaco or LACS for cataracts, each procedure has unique advantages and considerations.

We always recommend consulting your eye doctor to determine the best fit for your needs. Advancements in eye surgery continue to offer solutions for various conditions, paving the way for improved vision and enhanced quality of life.