Have you ever felt frustrated while enjoying a day at the beach or at the pool, having to go in with glasses or dealing with the discomfort of not being able to see clearly without them? It’s time to leave those limitations behind and enjoy clear vision free of vision correction. Laser refractive surgery or collamer lenses are safe and effective alternatives to improve your vision and forget about glasses or contact lenses forever. In this post, we will debunk myths and beliefs about refractive surgery and show you the benefits that this option offers to improve your quality of life.
What is refractive surgery and how does it work?
Refractive surgery is an ophthalmological procedure that aims to correct refractive errors of the eye, such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. These refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
There are two main techniques for refractive surgery: the Excimer laser and the implantation of a collamer lens. Both options eliminate refractive defects but are very different. Laser surgery involves reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors, while collamer lens implantation involves inserting a lens between the crystalline lens and the iris with the exact prescription to completely eliminate the visual defect. In other words, in the former there is a loss of tissue in the form of remodelling, whereas in the latter no tissue is touched; the lens is simply implanted and, if it were to be removed again, it would remain completely intact.
Debunking myths about refractive surgery
- Myth: Refractive surgery is painful and risky.
Fact: Refractive surgery is a safe and virtually painless procedure. It is performed under local anaesthesia and patients may experience at most a slight discomfort or sensation of pressure during the process. The associated risks are very low, and the vast majority of people experience a quick and uneventful recovery.
- Myth: Refractive surgery is only for extreme cases of myopia or astigmatism.
Fact: Refractive surgery is suitable for a wide range of refractive errors, from mild to more severe cases. Each patient is assessed individually by the ophthalmologist to determine whether they are a good candidate for one type of procedure or another. This will basically depend on the anatomical characteristics of the patient’s eye.
- Myth: The results of refractive surgery are not long lasting.
Fact: The results of refractive surgery are permanent. However, it is important to bear in mind that the eye does age, as does the rest of the body, and that at a certain age other conditions such as presbyopia or cataracts appear, regardless of whether or not the patient has had refractive surgery.
- Myth: Refractive surgery is expensive and unaffordable.
Fact: Although refractive surgery may have a high initial cost, in many cases, this expense is balanced by the ongoing expense of having to replace glasses or contact lenses. In addition, many patients find this investment worthwhile because of the significant improvement in their quality of life. On the other hand, at Clinica Castanera, we offer our patients financing options and payment plans that make the procedure more affordable.
Benefits of refractive surgery
Visual freedom: Say goodbye to glasses and contact lenses and experience the freedom to see clearly without visual corrections. You can enjoy water activities and sports without worrying about your lenses.
Improved quality of life: Refractive surgery can transform people’s lives, providing greater comfort and well-being in daily activities.
Better confidence: The ability to see clearly without the need for glasses can improve self-confidence and self-esteem.
Long-term savings: Although refractive surgery involves an initial cost, in the long term, many patients save money by avoiding the recurring expense of glasses and contact lenses.
Quick and safe procedure: Refractive surgery is performed within minutes. Advances in technology and surgical techniques have made the procedure increasingly safe and effective.
Quick recovery: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days after surgery.
Are you a candidate for refractive surgery?
Before you undergo surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough evaluation of your eyes to determine if you are a good candidate and to recommend the type of refractive surgery best suited to your needs. During this evaluation, extensive tests will be performed to measure your eye prescription, corneal thickness and other relevant factors.
The vast majority of patients are suitable for one type of surgery or another. Although it is true that in certain cases the physical characteristics of some patients make it unsafe to undergo this type of surgery. Although, as we have said, there are very few candidates who are left out.
In short, if you are tired of depending on glasses or contact lenses at the beach or during water activities, refractive surgery may be the solution you were looking for. We hope this article has served to explain correctly what the procedure consists of, as well as to debunk myths and misconceptions.
With refractive surgery, you can enjoy clear vision without visual corrections, allowing you to make the most of every moment at any time of the year.
At Castanera Clinic, we have a team of highly trained professionals with the latest technology in refractive surgery to provide you with the best possible care. If you are interested in learning more about this option and if you are a candidate, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. Our goal is to help you enjoy clear, worry-free vision, so you can live every day to the fullest. We look forward to seeing you in Barcelona with open arms and the best care for your eyes!
