Laser procedures can treat or resolve many eye conditions. Most laser treatments take place in a surgery center or other sterile facility, though some procedures may take place in the doctor's office. If an eye doctor believes a laser may help a person's eye condition, he will discuss the procedure and any possible risks. A person should have an understanding of the laser procedure, as well as the availability of other treatment options, before proceeding with treatment.
YAG Capsulotomy
Many people who have cataract surgery require a YAG laser treatment. During cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the cataract, which is the aged, hard lens that sits in a thin, bag-like capsule. She will insert a new, clear lens into the capsule. In response to the surgery, some people experience a clouding of this capsule, but this may take years to affect vision. However, when the cloudiness interferes with activities such as reading or causes glare, a doctor will recommend the YAG laser, states the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute. The doctor will use a YAG laser to tear a hole in the cloudy capsule. The procedure lasts a few minutes, and though a person may require a new eyeglass prescription, he will not require additional treatment or follow up.
Iridotomy
In most people with glaucoma, the fluid inside the eye does not drain as fast as the eye produces new fluid. According to the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, this causes the pressure to build up inside the eye, damaging the optic nerve. This damage will gradually cause vision loss. Doctors often prescribe eyedrops to help reduce eye pressure. However, many people cannot tolerate the eyedrops, or the drops do not lower the pressure enough. In such cases, the doctor may recommend a laser iridotomy. During an iridotomy, an eye surgeon will make a small hole in the iris, which is the colored, visible muscle in the eye, providing another way for fluid to drain, notes the eye institute. The doctor will continue to follow up with the patient in order to monitor the pressure in the eye.
Lasik
Prescription eyewear redirects the light so that it lands on the proper part of the retina, which is the back of the eye, giving a person the best possible vision. Lasik is an elective procedure that some people who wear glasses or contacts choose to have in order to eliminate the need for prescription eyewear. Lasik surgery allows an eye surgeon to reshape the cornea, which is the front window of the eye, and redirect the way light enters the eye, the way eyeglasses or contacts normally would, states the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will take measurements of the cornea to help him determine how to direct the laser for corneal reshaping. After the procedure, the patient will follow up with the doctor, and use one or more types of eyedrops to aid in healing and prevent infection, notes the FDA. Some people have good visual outcomes after Lasik, though some people still require glasses or contacts for clear vision.
