How to enjoy perfect eyesight for many years after laser vision correction?

Patients often ask us whether laser vision correction guarantees permanent results. Is there a risk the eyesight will regress and the refractive error will reach the values from before the surgery?

During the qualifying examination, an ophthalmic surgeon selects the most suitable correction method for each patient and conducts a number of measurements, such as: the thickness of the epithelium and the cornea, corneal shape and curvature. Shortly before the procedure they enter this data into the laser device, which means that particular correction is performed on the eye permanently. Most importantly, one of the conditions for positive qualification for the procedure is a stabilised vision defect.

It is crucial that immediately after the laser vision correction procedure patients follow the doctor’s recommendations – use the prescribed eye drops according to the instruction and adhere to temporary restrictions (e.g. avoid dust, pollen, smoke, bathing in natural and artificial water reservoirs and intense physical effort) until the cornea fully heals. It usually takes about 30 days.

The course of the whole convalescence period is an individual matter determined by factors such as age and the degree of vision defect correction and normally lasts up to 6 months after the procedure – the time needed to obtain the optimal correction results. Once the refractive treatment is terminated, maintaining good eyesight depends largely on the patient themselves – their general health condition, genetic predispositions, or the lifestyle they lead.

What factors contribute to eyesight deterioration?

Every day we are exposed to various factors which may negatively affect our visual acuity. It refers both to those who have undergone the laser vision correction surgery and those who have not. Some of these factors are:

- Long-term looking at the computer or smartphone screen – when we focus our vision on one point, we blink less frequen-tly, which in turn leads to excessive eye dryness. Additionally, screens emit harmful blue light, which may lead to the progression of myopia or cause macular degeneration (AMD).

- Sun exposure without UV filter sunglasses – regardless of whether it is summer or winter, UV radiation is harmful to our eyes. It contributes to conjunctivitis, corneal damage, macular degeneration or the development of cataract.

- Stimulants – smoking cigarettes and excessive alcohol intake have a detrimental effect on our eyes. Cataract occurs twice as often in smokers than in non-smokers. Uveitis (inflammation of the uvea), also caused by an addiction, may lead to complete blindness. What is more, alcohol is conducive to retinal degeneration.

How to protect the eyes from harmful factors?

More often than not mobile devices are equipped with a blue light filter, which can be turned on at any time in the device’s settings. An alternative may be so-called zero dioptre glasses with a blue light filter. It is also important to remember to take breaks while working in front of the screen and use lubricating eye drops to avoid discomfort connected with eye dryness. What is particularly detrimental to eyesight is using the smartphone or computer in the dark.

- No matter what season it is, we are constantly exposed to UV radiation. Therefore, sunglasses should be an integral ele-ment of our everyday outfit.

- The good general health condition of the body determines proper functioning of the eyes, which is why it is crucial to follow a healthy diet. Well-balanced meals will provide us with the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals. It is also worth remembering to stay properly hydrated.

Do you feel your vision has deteriorated? To determine the cause of this problem, make an appointment for a specialist ophthalmologic examination. If you have undergone the laser vision correction surgery, remember that you can make an appointment for a follow-up examination up to 6 months after the procedure. You can find the current price of the examination in the pricelist.

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