Ablation is a medical term referring to the precise removal of tissue. In eye surgery, particularly laser vision correction, ablation is used to reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The process typically involves using a laser to remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue, allowing light to properly focus on the retina for clearer vision. This technique is central to modern corrective eye surgeries such as LASIK and PRK.
In LASIK surgery, ablation is performed using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. After creating a thin flap in the cornea, the laser targets specific areas, vaporizing corneal tissue with extreme precision. This reshaping corrects the eye’s focusing power, improving vision. The laser is guided by detailed measurements of the eye, ensuring accuracy and safety. Ablation in LASIK is painless and completed in seconds, making it a quick and effective vision correction method.
Ablation can be performed using different technologies, depending on the condition being treated. Laser ablation is common in eye surgeries like LASIK and PRK. Cryoablation involves freezing tissue and is used for retinal treatments. Radiofrequency ablation uses heat from high-frequency electrical currents to destroy abnormal tissues. Each type serves specific medical needs, offering minimally invasive options for various eye and general health conditions.
Ablation is primarily used in refractive eye surgeries to correct vision by reshaping the cornea. It also has applications in treating glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure and in retinal procedures to seal retinal tears or detachments. By selectively removing or destroying targeted tissue, ablation helps restore or preserve vision, making it a crucial technique in modern ophthalmology.
The procedure starts with numbing eye drops to ensure comfort. In LASIK, a corneal flap is created, and the excimer laser ablates specific corneal tissue based on a pre-determined map. For surface treatments like PRK, the outer corneal layer is removed first. The laser reshapes the cornea, and the flap is repositioned or the surface heals naturally. The entire procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye and offers rapid visual recovery.
Ablation offers high precision in reshaping the cornea, leading to improved visual acuity and reduced dependency on glasses or contact lenses. It is minimally invasive, has a quick recovery time, and is highly customizable based on the patient's unique eye structure. The outcomes are predictable, and many patients experience immediate vision improvements. It is also a safe and FDA-approved method for vision correction.
While ablation is generally safe, some risks include dry eyes, glare, halos, and temporary visual fluctuations. Rare complications may include infection or under/overcorrection. Recovery is usually swift, with most patients returning to normal activities within 24–48 hours. Follow-up care is essential to monitor healing. Eye drops, rest, and avoiding eye strain help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results from the procedure.
