Eye laser

What is eye laser treatment? What is it used for?

A laser is a focussed beam of light that is used in different fields. Since it can alter living tissues when it falls on them, lasers have use in treatment of eye diseases.

Eye lasers are of different types and for different purposes. The most common "laser" that people are aware of is the one used to correct spectacle power. There are other lasers used for control of eye pressure, opening thin obstructions and for retinal diseases. It is best to have a detailed discussion with your eye doctor and find out more about the particular laser tratment that has been advised for you.

I had eye laser 5 years ago and I do not use spectacles now. Recently, my eye doctor advised laser again. Why do I need to do it again?

From what is mentioned, what you have undergone is probably laser to correct eye power. That laser works on the front part of the eye and simply corrects your eye power alone. During your recent visit, although your eye power was stable, your doctor may have found other changes within the eye. For instance, eye pressure changes or retinal changes that have to be treated by a different type of laser.

What are the retinal conditions that require laser?

Retinal laser treatment is given by your retina specialist for certain specific eye conditions:

• Abnormal growth of new blood vessels in the retina (NVE/NVD): Diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusion & inflammation

• Swelling of central retina (macular edema): Diabetes, vein occlusion, inflammation.

• In diabetics, when preparing the eye for retinal surgery

• Retinal holes, weak areas or bleeding spots

What can I expect during retinal laser? How long does it take to do it in hospital?

These days, retinal lasers are performed on advanced machines that deliver multiple spots within a short time. Use of latest technology reduces treatment duration and discomfort for the patient. This procedure can be completed in 5-10 minutes. Most patients are comfortable with the procedure and do not complain of any major discomfort.

What are the precautions I need to follow after retinal laser?

Retina laser is a light-based procedure and, by itself, is not considered to be a major surgery. The advice of your eye doctor has to be followed after completing this short procedure. One may require multiple sessions at specific intervals based on the disease process. Usually, one can return to normal work in a day or two. It is advisable to avoid bending, straining or lifting weights, especially if laser was done for bleeding in the eye.