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STAGES OF LASER TREATMENT

Step 1: Tests 

The detailed topographic map of the cornea layer is acquired with topography examinations. Corneal thickness is measured with a pachymeter. Corneal thickness is as important as the number of diopters in deciding on the surgery method to be used.

Step 2: Examination

After the abovementioned three-step tests are completed, a detailed eye examination is done based on the data acquired from such examinations. During the examination, the visual acuity, diopter values and binding measures are determined. Biomicroscopic examination is performed and finally eye pressure is measured.

Age and the presence of systemic disorders such as diabetes, goiter and hypertension are questioned in detail. Wavefront or Topolaser tests are performed when necessary.

Step 3: Eye Examination with Eye Drop

An eye drop which enlarges the pupils is administered and after approximately 30 minutes the diopter values are measured again and the eyeground is examined thoroughly (retinal vessels and nerve layer) from the pupil. If there are any risky areas such as thinning, detachment or hole on the retina, such areas are secured by argon laser method. Argon laser administration may require a 3-week delay of the excimer laser therapy; however, it does not impede the operation. It ensures a safer operation.

All data obtained from such examinations and analyses, all of which last for approximately 2-3 hours, are evaluated by the refractive surgeons and the ideal treatment method is determined. Since the pupils are enlarged by the eye drop and it takes some time for them to return to their normal dimensions, laser treatment may not be applied on the same day. The surgery is scheduled to the next day at the earliest.

Step 4: Decision of Surgery

After the test and examination results are evaluated, doctors specialized in laser decide about your surgery and the method to be used in the operation.

To the Attention of Patients Who Will Undergo Laser Treatment!

Before the treatment

Since LASIK treatment is a procedure that is concluded in a very short time with no trouble for the patient, there is no need for the patients to feel anxiety and stress for the surgery. Patients may have their regular meals on the day of surgery.

The patients should not:

• wear eye makeup,
• wear perfume,
• use blood thinner medications.

During the treatment

Upon entry into the laser room, the patient is requested to lie back on the special laser table. The patient's eye is covered with a sterile cloth and then the patient's eyelids are separated with a special and safe apparatus so that the patient would not be able to blink them during the treatment. Laser treatment takes about 4-5 minutes for each eye; the patient suffers neither pain nor distress. It is of vital importance that the patient feels comfortable and follows the doctor's instructions during the treatment. After the treatment is completed, the patient leaves the laser room with no bandage applied on their eyes.

First 24 hours after the treatment

Following laser treatment, the patient waits for approximately half an hour, and then he/she is examined for control purposes. Patient may leave the hospital after the control examination. It is normal to have blurry vision and stinging, burning pain and watering in the eyes for 3-4 hours. The doctor's recommendations regarding administration of any medication should be observed with attention. In case of any headache after the laser operation, a painkiller which contains "no blood thinner" may be used. We recommend the patient not to drive or go to work on the day of the operation. The patient should avoid any dusty environment. The patient should not rub, scratch or touch the treated eye, should not wash his/her face and should not take a shower during the first 24 hours. The first few days, necessary attention should be paid for no soap or shampoo in the eyes. One day after the operation, there will be no side effects that will restrict the patient's social and business life. If any wrinkle on the transparent area of the eye or any reaction under the flap is observed during the post-operation examination performed the next day by the doctors, the area under the flap may need to be washed. However, this is easier compared to the operation. After the operation, the patient should use artificial teardrops recommended by the doctor for about 3-6 months.