When considering vision correction, patients’ expectations are simple – clear vision without hassle, safety, a short recovery period, and long-lasting results. Optometrists from the eye clinic “Lirema” explain which methods are the most popular in our country, how they differ, and which option may be the most suitable for each patient.
According to specialists, due to rapidly growing demand, the reliability of procedures, and improved accessibility, more and more people are choosing vision correction.
“As the number of patients with myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism continues to grow, vision correction has become not an exceptional procedure but a modern standard that allows people to quickly forget about glasses and contact lenses,” say the optometrists.
1. SURFACE method – the most accessible option
Surface correction methods include SmartSurfACE (transPRK), PRK, and LASEK. During these procedures, the thinnest layer of the cornea – the epithelium – is removed and the corneal shape is corrected.
“Imagine you have scraped your skin – it needs some time to heal. That is why recovery after this method takes longer. While the epithelium regrows, patients may experience tearing and light sensitivity for the first few days, and vision stabilizes over several weeks,” explain the optometrists.
To make the first days after the procedure as comfortable as possible, patients are given the medications necessary for healing. If a person tolerates pain well, the overall experience is usually easier, but it is important to understand that while the cornea forms a new epithelial layer, complete absence of sensation should not be expected – the eyes may tear, sting, and patients may prefer to avoid bright light.
2. FEMTO method – a solution for those with little time
With FEMTO vision correction, one laser (a femtosecond laser) creates and lifts a thin corneal flap. Another laser (an excimer laser) reshapes the inner surface of the cornea, after which the flap is returned to its original position. Healing is fast, discomfort is minimal, and the final result is achieved within a few days.
“FEMTO laser vision correction is one of the most popular methods worldwide and is especially suitable for those who want quick results or who do not tolerate pain well, as a longer recovery period may be challenging,” say the optometrists.
According to specialists, the surface layer of the cornea is preserved during the FEMTO procedure, allowing patients to quickly return to their normal daily activities. Although some people approach this procedure with caution because of the additional step of creating a corneal flap, this technology has been used and refined for many years. If it were not reliable and safe, it would not be so widely used around the world.
3. SMILE PRO method – the most comfortable option
Vision correction using the SMILE PRO method minimally affects the cornea, ensures extremely fast healing, preserves the integrity of corneal tissue, and significantly reduces discomfort caused by temporary dry eyes after laser correction.
“SMILE PRO is the newest and most comfortable method. It rarely causes dry eyes and allows patients to return to their normal lifestyle almost immediately, including contact sports. With other methods, this usually takes a bit longer,” the optometrists explain.
According to them, this type of vision correction is the most expensive due to the latest unique technology. Nevertheless, the method is particularly popular in Scandinavian countries.
4. PRESBYOND® – the possibility to see well after 40
Around the age of 40, everyone without exception begins to experience worsening near vision when reading. In such cases, conventional laser vision correction is not always sufficient for clear vision at all distances, and reading glasses may still be needed.
“This is known as presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness. The best solution is laser vision correction using the PRESBYOND® method, which allows patients to see clearly at different distances – both near and far – without glasses while maintaining natural vision. It is especially suitable for patients aged 40 and older. Recovery is fast – only a few days – and discomfort is minimal,” say the optometrists.
5. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) – a solution when other methods are not possible
From around the age of 50, the natural lens of the eye begins to lose its clarity and vision gradually weakens. In such cases, conventional laser vision correction is no longer recommended, and the most effective solution is refractive lens exchange (RLE).
“During the procedure, the natural lens that has lost its elasticity is replaced with a high-quality artificial lens in about 20 minutes. Our goal during surgery is to achieve the best possible vision at all distances, so the need for glasses either disappears or becomes minimal,” say the specialists.
According to them, vision usually improves within the first few days after surgery and stabilizes fully within several weeks.
“No vision correction method is better or worse than another. After detailed examinations and a discussion of the patient’s expectations, we choose the most suitable solution for clear vision. If several options are possible, the patient can choose the one that feels most appropriate,” the optometrists conclude.
If the response is positive, we will invite you for a consultation with a doctor and a thorough eye examination.