Many experience poor vision, which makes it difficult for the eyes to see and understand various colors, dimensions, etc. However, there are many eye treatments available, and the most popular among all are the LASIK eye surgery procedure and the Implantable Collamer lens procedure. The most advanced developments in corrective vision surgery, also known as eye ICL surgery. With this innovation in technology and surgical procedure, the refractive surgery field has widened more. Also, there is another option known as LASIK surgery. You need to know all about them to understand which one is a better option for you.

ICL and LASIK – An overview

ICL or Implantable collamer lens, is a surgery in which a special lens is placed in the eye for vision correction and to make it undetectable to both patient and observers. The synthetic lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens in the area behind the iris. It is an intraocular surgery, unlike LASIK, which is a surface technique that requires the removal of flaps of the cornea. LASIK is a laser procedure to remove glasses and is considered the most common refractive procedure, but ICL surgery is also gaining popularity among eye doctors.

ICL and LASIK – The Definition

Implantable collamer lenses are a substitute for LASIK surgery, in which an experienced eye surgeon permanently inserts contact lenses into the eyes. It is a cutting-edge, thin sclera lens that works the same as a contact lens but is surgically placed. It can be retrieved when necessary, requires no upkeep, and cannot be felt in the eye. LASIK eye vision surgery, also known as Laser in Situ Keratomileusis, is done to correct vision for people with astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness. The surgeon will alter the structure of your cornea with a laser, and it enhances the focus of light on the retina. The main purpose of LASIK surgery is to improve eyesight by correcting your refractive error. It is done to reduce the need for eyewear or corrective lenses and it might also help you to entirely forgo them as well.

• ICL and LASIK surgery – the difference

The major difference between Implantable collamer lenses and LASIK is the type as well as eyeglass amount prescription that can be treated with both procedures.

1. However, the FDA has approved ICL to treat many conditions, including nearsightedness, from more moderate to more extreme amounts. Also, ICL has not been approved by the FDA to treat farsightedness or astigmatism. On the other hand, LASIK is approved by the FDA to treat both farsightedness and nearsightedness with or without astigmatism.
2. ICL is an artificial lens similar to a contact lens and is implanted in front of a natural eye lens in space behind the iris. So, it is invisible to observers and patients themselves. It is an intraocular surgery approved for correction of moderate to severe myopia. LASIK, on the other hand, is a surface procedure that needs removal of part of the cornea. It is among the most common refractive surgery for the removal of spectacles.
3. Ideal candidates for LASIK and ICL are both considered vision-corrective solutions for adults between 18 to 45 years of age. But some factors make you the perfect candidate for both of them.

To be a good candidate for LASIK surgery, you should be:

• At least 18 years of age.
• having a prescription for glasses that has changed in past years.
• having good eye health and good overall health.
• should not be pregnant and nursing
• should not have a history of chronic eye dryness.

Ideal candidates for Implantable Collamer lens surgery :

• should be aged between 21 to 45.
• should have mild to severe myopia
• Should have a steady prescription

• ICL vs LASIK – The procedure 

LASIK eye surgery and ICL surgery both have the same data and are outpatient procedures that take a short time, usually 30 minutes or even less. During the procedures, eyes are numbed, and patients might be given sedatives as well. With LASIK, surgeons use a laser to create a thin flap to access tissue underneath. The laser shapes the cornea to allow the light to focus on the retina. The doctors in Gurgaon then use the most advanced laser to create the natural shape of the cornea, preserve the quality of vision, and address the spherical distortions that can induce glare and affect night vision. Just After the LASIK care procedure in Gurgaon, patients typically see better results immediately; however, the best outcomes are noticed within seven to ten days post-surgery.

During the ICL surgery procedure, the eye surgeon creates tiny micro incisions close to the cornea to allow positioning of the lens amid the iris and the natural iris. The surgeon implants the lens through these micro incisions, and the implants unfold. When the ICL implant is developed, the experienced surgeon places the edge of the lens behind the iris and is invisible. After the procedure; patients are prescribed the eye drops to use at home to get the results within 24 hours post-surgery.

• ICL and LASIK – the recovery 

Recovery from LASIK or ICL surgery requires no time; doctors will advise you to limit your activities and avoid swimming pools or heavy exercises that may cause perspirations to drip into your eyes. After both surgeries, you may feel burning or mild pain in the eyes; however, that discomfort is not severe and will resolve in some time. After surgery, you might also experience some blurred vision that would be clear by the second-day post-surgery.

Which is better – ICL or LASIK?

If you are confused regarding which one is best for you out of Implantable collamer lens surgery and LASIK surgery, there are two main factors. First is your current eyeglass prescription and second, what is best in terms of safety. Many top eye surgeons agree that Implantable collamer lenses are a more invasive surgery procedure than LASIK and should be reserved for patients who are not perfect candidates for LASIK surgery. Out of the two, LASIK is the most common and affordable option for people because it does not include intraocular risks linked with ICL surgery. Since LASIK is the most available and more experienced doctors are equipped to perform it, it is also an affordable option for all. If you are a suitable candidate, your eye surgeon will advise LASIK or ICL. It is best to consult the experienced ophthalmologist in Gurgaon, Dr. Deepa Gupta, to know which option is best for you out of the two. If you are a good candidate or prefer it over LASIK, they may advise you on the course of action that gives the best outcomes for your condition.

Why to choose Lal Eye Care in Delhi NCR?

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Deepa Gupta at Lal Eye Care in Delhi NCR if you are interested in receiving either of the two procedures LASIK or ICL. The clinic is committed to giving millions of people the freedom to live without glasses. The experienced eye surgeon provides laser eyesight and improves many lives by offering the best and most advanced methods. The eye center provides highly customized and advanced eye care services and is known for the best LASIK surgery in Gurgaon. Dr. Deepa Gupta is an expert in corneal transplant, including DALK and DSAEK, and possesses expertise in various refractive and corneal surgeries.

FAQ

1. Should I do LASIK or ICL?

It is best to consult an expert eye surgeon to know which one is best for you. The specialist doctor will determine and evaluate your condition, and will tell you the best option that will give long-lasting results. Both LASIK and ICL surgeries are good on their terms. If you are not suitable for LASIK, the eye doctor will recommend you choose ICL.

2. Are lens implants better than LASIK?

LASIK is recommended for those who have low to moderate refractive error and no associated eye disease. Lens implants, on the other hand, are done only if the patient is not stable enough for any other vision correction surgeries like LASIK because it is a highly invasive procedure and is expensive as well. Lens implants are also for those with early cataracts.

3. Why choose ICL over LASIK?

Some factors make you choose ICL over LASIK :

• ICL are tiny thin lenses inserted in the eye.
• These ICLs become part of the eye and do not require wearing or removal like regular contact lenses.
• ICLs are inserted in front of the natural lens inside the eye and need quick surgery.
• Unlike LASIK, ICL does not induce cornea thinning, and hence, it is a great option for people with high eye powers.
• Unlike LASIK, corneal nerves are not affected in ICL, and so it is less likely to dry eyes.
• Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery is a reversible procedure, and these lenses can be easily removed through minor surgery.

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis abbreviated as LASIK, stands for a cutting-edge laser eye surgery technique designed to reshape the cornea, the transparent front layer of the eye. This innovative procedure proves highly effective in addressing common vision issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Acknowledged for its widespread popularity, LASIK has earned the trust of millions who have opted for this vision-enhancing procedure. Nevertheless, it’s essential to recognize that, like any surgical intervention, LASIK presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits of LASER eye surgery 

• Improved vision

LASIK has the remarkable ability to substantially enhance one’s vision, with a majority of individuals undergoing the procedure attaining 20/20 vision or even better. This transformation can have a profound impact on your daily life, simplifying tasks like driving, reading, and engaging in sports activities.

• Convenience

Following a successful LASIK procedure, the need for glasses or contact lenses becomes apparent, presenting a significant and liberating advantage. This newfound freedom from visual aids holds particular importance for individuals engaged in sports or various activities where the reliance on glasses or contacts proves impractical and often cumbersome.

The elimination of these visual aids can streamline your daily routines and enhance your overall quality of life, offering newfound convenience and comfort.

• Quick recovery.

LASIK, renowned for its minimally invasive nature, offers a swift recovery period, allowing individuals to swiftly return to their daily routines. The majority of LASIK recipients find themselves able to resume work, attend school, and engage in their social lives within just a few days post-surgery.

This expedited recovery not only underscores the convenience of LASIK but also underscores its appeal as a procedure that minimizes disruptions to your lifestyle while providing remarkable vision improvements.

• Low risk

LASIK stands as a safe and highly effective procedure, characterized by an exceptionally low risk of severe complications.

Nevertheless, before opting for LASIK, it is crucial to engage in a comprehensive discussion with your medical professional. This dialogue should encompass an exploration of both the potential risks and the myriad benefits associated with LASIK, ensuring that you make an informed decision regarding this transformative eye surgery. By collaborating closely with your doctor, you can better appreciate the procedure’s safety profile while tailoring it to your unique vision needs and circumstances.

Above mentioned points are some benefits of laser eye treatment or benefits of contoura vision.

Disadvantages of LASIK

• Cost

LASIK surgery typically carries a relatively higher cost, and this expense can fluctuate significantly based on various factors. The overall price of LASIK is subject to variation, influenced by factors such as the chosen surgeon’s reputation and experience, the geographical location of the surgical facility, and the specific type of LASIK procedure selected to address your vision needs.

When considering LASIK as an option, it’s essential to recognize that this financial investment should be viewed in the context of the long-term benefits it can offer.

While the initial cost may seem substantial, many individuals find that the freedom from glasses or contact lenses, along with the improved quality of life, make LASIK a valuable and worthwhile investment in their vision, health, and overall well-being.

Therefore, exploring the cost intricacies of LASIK comprehensively and considering its potential advantages is a crucial step in your journey toward achieving a better vision.

•  Pain

LASIK, while not entirely devoid of sensation, typically entails only minimal discomfort for the majority of individuals throughout the procedure. It’s worth noting that the discomfort experienced during LASIK tends to be quite mild.

• Furthermore, it’s common for some individuals to encounter a degree of post-surgery discomfort for a few days following the procedure.

• This transient discomfort is a normal part of the healing process as your eyes adapt to the changes made during LASIK.

• Rest assured, your surgeon will guide managing any discomfort, ensuring that it remains manageable.

• In the grander scope of the LASIK or CONTOURA Vision journey, these brief moments of mild discomfort are a small trade-off for the potential long-term benefits of improved vision and reduced reliance on visual aids like glasses or contact lenses.

• Dry eyes

LASIK surgery may induce a temporary reduction in tear production, potentially resulting in the development of dry eyes as a transient side effect.

• It’s important to note that this condition typically follows a short-term trajectory, often resolving itself naturally within a matter of months.

• The temporary decrease in tear production post-LASIK is a well-documented phenomenon, and understanding this potential effect is crucial for anyone considering the procedure.

• While experiencing dry eyes can be somewhat uncomfortable, it’s important to bear in mind that it is usually a passing phase in the overall LASIK recovery process.

• During this time, your eye care provider can offer strategies and treatments to alleviate any discomfort and support your eyes in returning to their normal tear production levels.

• Infection

The likelihood of infection following LASIK is minimal; however, it remains present. Nonetheless, with diligent and appropriate care, this risk can be effectively minimized.

• Retreatment.

While quite uncommon, there exist instances where LASIK may not achieve the anticipated outcomes, necessitating a potential need for a follow-up procedure or a redo.

• It is essential to be aware that this is a rare occurrence in the broader context of LASIK surgeries, but it underscores the importance of thorough pre-operative assessments and discussions with your surgeon to ensure the best possible visual outcomes for your unique circumstances.

Conclusion

Dr. Deepa Gupta, the accomplished ophthalmologist, emphasizes that LASIK stands as a proven and secure procedure, offering substantial enhancements in vision. Nevertheless, it is imperative to thoughtfully assess the potential risks and rewards before concluding.

If you find yourself contemplating LASIK eye surgery, it is paramount to engage in a comprehensive conversation with your dedicated eye doctor, such as Dr. Deepa Gupta, who can delve into your distinct requirements and aspirations.

Their expertise will be invaluable in guiding you toward the most suitable decision regarding whether LASIK aligns with your specific vision goals and individual circumstances.

Additionally 

When contemplating LASIK eye surgery, it’s crucial to take several factors into account:

1. Age:

Typically, LASIK is not advisable for individuals under the age of 18, as their eyes are still in the developmental stage.

2. Lifestyle: 

Consider your daily activities and hobbies. If you engage in sports or pursue endeavors where glasses or contacts prove impractical, LASIK could emerge as a highly suitable choice.

3. Expectations: 

Maintaining realistic expectations is paramount. While LASIK can work wonders for vision correction, it’s essential to understand that it may not eliminate the need for glasses or contacts in all cases.

Discussing your expectations openly with your eye care specialist will help you set realistic goals for the procedure.

FAQ’s

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Never overlook any procedure and what it stands for. The same thing follows here when discussing the term LASIK eye surgery. It’s always necessary to understand what the term means and what procedures it includes.

So, to begin with, what does the term LASIK stand for? 

The term is Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is a medical procedure that permanently transforms the shape of the cornea and clears the veil of the front of the eye using an excimer laser.

LASIK eye surgery is a well-known and most typically conducted laser refractive surgery to fix vision problems.

LASIK surgery involves using a special type of cutting laser that precisely changes the shape of the dome-shaped transparent tissue which is present at the front of an individual’s eye or cornea to enhance their vision.

Cause 

According to the experts, the root cause of unclear vision is when light that bends to reflect vision creates incorrect vision.

In eyes with normal vision and healthy functions, the cornea deviates the light at an angle, specifically onto the retina at the rear of the eyeball.

However, the light bends inaccurately for individuals with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, resulting in blurred or improper vision.

Nevertheless, Glasses and contact lenses are the options to fix vision, but reshaping the cornea through LASIK surgery can provide essential refraction.

Why is LASIK performed? 

LASIK surgery is often conducted to rebuild the underlying

vision problems:

• Myopia

When the eyeball is a little longer than normal or the cornea angles too sharply, light rays focus in front of the retina and blur the vision in the distance. You can see close objects clearly but not distant objects.

• Hyperopia

When an individual has an eyeball that is shorter than usual or consists of a flat cornea, the light focuses behind the retina, not on the retina. This results in near vision and sometimes distant vision being blurred.

• Astigmatism.

When the cornea is unevenly curved or flat, this results in astigmatism. Which disrupts the focus of near as well as far vision.

If you are contemplating LASIK surgery, it is presumably because you already carry glasses or contact lenses. The ophthalmologist will discuss whether you want a LASIK surgery or any other similar vision-correcting process option that will function for you.

Risks

Complications resulting in vision loss are very rare. However, LASIK eye surgery has some side effects, such as dry eyes and temporary blurred vision problems like glare, which are quite familiar after LASIK.

These issues usually go away after a few weeks or months, and only occasionally do people consider such problems as long-term problems.

Complications involved in LASIK surgery:

• Dry eyes 

LASIK surgery temporarily decreases the production of tears. For about six months after surgery, your eyes may become unusually dry as they heal.

Dry eyes can affect vision. The ophthalmologist may recommend eye drops. If an individual has severe dry eye, they may choose another procedure, which is to place a special plug in your tear duct to keep tears from draining from the surface of your eye.

•  Under Repair.

If the laser removes too little tissue in your eye, you won’t get the clearer results you expect. The correction is more frequent for nearsighted people. You may need another LASIK procedure within a year to remove more tissue.

• Overcorrection

It’s also possible that the laser removed too much tissue in your eye. Overcorrecting can be more difficult to correct than correcting.

• Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be caused by uneven tissue removal. This may require additional surgery, glasses, or contact lenses.

• Flap problems 

Folding or removing the flap from the front of the eye during surgery can lead to complications, including infection and excess tearing. The outer most layer of corneal tissue can grow abnormally under the flap during healing.

LASIK surgery is often contraindicated if an individual has:

• If an individual has causes like thinning and swelling of the cornea.
• Severe nearsightedness
• Have very large pupils or thin corneas.
•  Have age-related eye changes that make vision less clear.
• Play sports Contact sports may involve blows to the face.

Results

LASIK surgery frequently enhances vision without glasses or contact lenses. Generally, an individual has a very good chance of getting the desired or better vision after refractive surgery.

More than 8 out of 10 people who have undergone refractive LASIK surgery no longer need glasses or contact lenses for most activities.

The results depend on the specific refractive errors and other factors. People with low levels of myopia tend to have the most success with refractive surgery. People with high levels of nearsightedness or farsightedness with astigmatism have more unpredictable outcomes.

In some cases, surgery can lead to misalignment. If this occurs, an individual may need another surgery to get the right correction for their eyes.

Cost of LASIK surgery in Gurgaon

The average cost of Lasik eye surgery relies upon numerous factors.

However, the Starting cost is ₹ 40,000. The average cost is ₹ 68,000, and The maximum price is

₹ 1,10,000

The cost of LASIK surgery often increases depending upon the 

• Experience of the ophthalmologist.
• Location of the clinic
• Type of vision defect
• Screening tests
• Medicine cost
• Follow-up cost

Why are we the best eye care clinic in Gurgaon?

Following are some of the justifications for why we are one of the best clinics in Gurgaon.

• We offer cutting-edge eye care treatments.
• No waiting lines or short queues.
• Get expert advice from Dr. Deepa Gupta on a wide range of eye care concerns.
• Highly personalized.

Vision problems, weak eyesight, hazy vision, and trouble seeing movements or obstacles are troublesome and can make daily chores a struggle. A majority of people across the world experience such troubles at some point in time. Wearing spectacles and contact lenses make affordable and common aids to correct vision, but they can be uncomfortable to wear. Thus, many people undergo LASIK eye surgery to get rid of bulky spectacles. However, one common question that strikes the mind of patients planning to undergo LASIK surgery is- how long does it last? We have gone a whole nine yards to find the answer to this question for all those planning to undergo a LASIK treatment. Before we uncover the answer to this question, let’s get some understanding of the procedure. 

What is LASIK, and how does it work?

LASIK is a surgical procedure in which an eye surgeon works to reshape the cornea in the eye using laser technology. A change in the curvature of the cornea helps promote clear vision and remove discomfort. 

LASIK is a small surgical procedure and usually takes a few minutes to complete. During the procedure, the patient is made to lie on a reclining chair, and a numbing eye drop is put into the eye. An eye surgeon will use a clip to keep your eyelids apart and place a suction ring on the eye. Thereafter, your surgeon will create a hinged flap from the front of the eye to get access to the part of the retina that needs to be reshaped. A programmed laser machine here helps reshape the retina of your eye to improve vision. Once the corneal reshaping is done, the flap is placed back in its original position and sealed with a medicated liquid. It gets attached to the cornea itself without stitches. 

What to expect after a LASIK surgery?

Since LASIK is an invasive surgery, you may feel irritation, pain, or discomfort soon after the procedure. You may have watery eyes and would even want to rub your eyes. Don’t! Rubbing your eyes to relieve irritation and discomfort can displace the hinged flap creating the need for further treatment. Also, you may experience blurry vision and experience sensitivity to light. These symptoms are generally mild, and your surgeon can prescribe you some pain relievers and antibiotics to lower discomfort and prevent infections. It’s best to take an off from work for the initial few days until these symptoms subside. Also, consult your doctor if these symptoms persist for longer or cause discomfort. 

How long does LASIK take?

LASIK is a surgical procedure, and there may be some complexities involved. Besides, each patient is unique. Thus the time required for LASIK may vary for each patient depending on several factors. Generally, it may take 7 minutes to 10 minutes for the procedure to get complete. However, some steps involved in the preparation may take an extra couple of minutes apart from the actual time required for the surgery. 

How long does LASIK last?

When it comes to LASIK, one of the commonly asked questions is whether the results are permanent, or for how long do they last? Well, there are both short-term and long-term benefits associated with the surgery. By saying short-term, we refer to the improvement in the vision patients experience after 4 to 5 hours of the surgery. After taking precautions and proper rest for two or three days, you can resume your daily activities with a new and improved vision.  Considering the long-term benefits, LASIK can help you maintain a clear vision for 10, 20, or more years, depending on your health. In short, LASIK promotes permanent results; however, you may feel a little haziness in your vision over the years due to age and macular degeneration. 

Takeaway

Hazy vision is not only discomforting but can take a toll on daily life, as with weak or improper vision, doing everyday chores can be a struggle. Also, most spectacle wearers want to take out the burden over their nose bridge, and in such cases, LASIK allows them to enjoy clear vision without carrying bulky glasses over their faces. LASIK provides permanent results and makes an excellent treatment option for those having vision problems. However, you must ensure to get it done by an expert surgeon. After all, it is a matter of your delicate eyes. Dr. Deepa Gupta is one of the best eye surgeons in Gurgaon and holds the expertise of over 13 years in the field of ophthalmology. 

FAQs-

In how much time after the LASIK can I see clearly?

You are advised to avoid putting strain on your eyes soon after the procedure. However, you will be able to feel the difference and clarity in your vision after 4-5 hours of the procedure. 

Does LASIK wear off after 10 years?

It’s a widespread myth that LASIK wears off after 10 years. Rather, it renders permanent results which may even last a lifetime. However, it’s normal to experience a slight blurriness in your vision over the years as you age.