Excimer Eye Laser

Laser eye treatment has become one of the most commonly applied methods in recent years. Particularly, Excimer Eye Laser has been used for over 20 years in the treatment of various refractive errors in the eyes. Commonly known as ‘Eye Carving’ among the public, this treatment method is performed using a device called Excimer Laser. This device produces ultraviolet light at a wavelength of 193 nm using Ar F gas. Excimer Laser treatment is generally used for the correction of myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. This method is one of the most frequently employed techniques.

Excimer laser is applied to whom?

The Excimer treatment method can be applied to individuals aged 18 and older whose eye prescription has not changed by more than 0.50 within the last year, and those with myopia up to -9.0, hypermetropia up to +5, and astigmatism. Additionally, Excimer can be applied to individuals with sufficient corneal thickness, without conditions such as rheumatism and diabetes, and without other eye diseases. The crucial aspect of Excimer laser treatment is to initially assess through examination whether the eyes are suitable for this treatment before the surgery. Excimer laser treatment is applicable to individuals with refractive errors in their eyes. The most significant indicators of refractive errors include eye pain, discomfort, and visual impairment. Inability to see distant objects, inability to see close objects, and visual defects like astigmatism are common refractive errors.

Who is not eligible for Excimer laser treatment?

The Excimer treatment method can be applied to certain individuals, but there are conditions under which it cannot be used. The individuals for whom this treatment method cannot be applied can be listed as follows:

• Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis,
• Those with diabetes,
• Pregnant women,
• Breastfeeding mothers,
• Individuals with keratoconus,
• People with partial eye hypertension,
• Individuals with cataracts.

About Excimer treatment

There are certain points to be mindful of before and after Excimer laser treatment. These include:

Beforehand

• There is no problem with eating on the day of the treatment.
• If there is a regularly used medication, the doctor should be informed.
• On the day of the operation, eye makeup should not be applied.
• On the day of the operation, perfume should not be applied.

Treatment Process

• About 45 minutes before the surgery, you will be given a sedative medication. The reason for administering this medication is to alleviate any anxiety related to the surgery.
• Before the operation, you will be asked to wear a cap and shirt to provide a sterile environment. Additionally, you will be provided with special slippers that are only used in this area.
• Before starting the treatment process, you will lie on the laser bed on your back and keep your head straight. After this, an antiseptic solution will be applied to your eyelids, and a sterile drape will be placed over you. Subsequently, the treatment method will be applied based on the type of operation. Staying relaxed during the surgery will help shorten the duration of the procedure.
• After the treatment is completed, antibiotic eye drops will be applied, and after waiting for 30 minutes for examination, you will be able to return home.

Aftermath

• It is normal to experience blurred vision after Excimer treatment. You may feel some stinging, watering, and burning in your eyes for about 2 hours after the procedure.
• Pain is rarely observed after the procedure, and any discomfort can generally be relieved with a mild pain reliever.
• After the procedure, you should avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with your hands.
• Similarly, you should avoid washing your face after the surgery.
• You should avoid watching television or using a computer and refrain from reading books or newspapers after the surgery.
• Do not take a bath and do not wash your face.
• You will need to have a short check-up at the hospital the day after the treatment. After this check-up, you can resume your normal daily activities.
• You should come for a check-up during the first week and the first month after the procedure.
• For the first 10 days after the procedure, avoid wearing makeup, and for the first 20 days, refrain from swimming in the sea or pool.
• After the check-up on the day following the treatment, you can take a bath, but you should avoid getting shampoo and soap into your eyes.