LASIK and PresbyLASIK in Toulon — Laser in situ keratomileusis

LASIK is the most widely performed refractive surgery technique in the world. It combines two lasers: a femtosecond laser first creates a corneal flap about 110 µm thick, then an excimer laser reshapes the cornea underneath. The flap is then laid back like a natural dressing, which considerably speeds up recovery. LASIK corrects all refractive errors: myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia and presbyopia (PresbyLASIK). Visual recovery is almost immediate — most patients see well from the next day.

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LASIK: the essentials

Principle: femtosecond-laser corneal flap + excimer-laser reshaping
Corrects: myopia (to about -10), astigmatism, hyperopia (to +6), presbyopia (PresbyLASIK)
Requires: a sufficiently thick cornea
Anaesthesia: local drops — painless
Both eyes: same day
Procedure time: about 15 minutes
Recovery: 24 hours, back to work next day
Dr Bourdon’s fees: €2,650 both eyes (LASIK), €2,750 (PresbyLASIK)

How does LASIK work?

Under the femtosecond laser, a painless suction stabiliser is placed and the corneal flap is created in about 10 seconds; vision blurs momentarily.
The same is done on the other eye, then the patient moves under the excimer laser.
After disinfection, the surgeon lifts the corneal flap and the excimer laser reshapes the cornea (10 to 20 seconds).
The flap is carefully repositioned; a bandage lens may be placed for safety.

Recovery and aftercare

Vision recovers quickly — usually within 24 hours, allowing a return to work and driving the next day. There is little or no pain. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used for 2 to 4 weeks, and artificial tears for 1 to 3 months as LASIK can cause transient dry eye. Avoid rubbing the eyes and submerging the head in water for the first weeks.

Advantages and limits

Advantages: fastest recovery, painless, corrects the full range of refractive errors including presbyopia.
Limits: needs a thicker cornea than PRK, more frequent transient dry eye, not advised for at-risk-of-trauma occupations (the flap).

Other techniques: PRK · SMILE · Phakic ICL implant · PreLex

Frequently asked questions about LASIK

Is LASIK painful?

No. Local drop anaesthesia numbs the eye. You may feel brief pressure during the suction step, but no pain. Afterwards there is little or no discomfort, and vision is usually clear the next day.

When can I drive after LASIK?

Usually the next day, once the surgeon confirms your visual acuity at the follow-up visit.

What is PresbyLASIK?

PresbyLASIK is a LASIK treatment that also corrects presbyopia, by creating a multifocal corneal profile or a slight monovision on the non-dominant eye.

Is LASIK suitable for thin corneas?

Not always. If the cornea is too thin, PRK or a phakic ICL implant is safer. Corneal thickness is measured during the pre-operative assessment (pachymetry).

How much does LASIK cost in Toulon?

Dr Bourdon’s fee is €2,650 for both eyes (LASIK) and €2,750 (PresbyLASIK), post-operative consultations included. Many insurers reimburse part of the cost.

Sources

Article written and reviewed by Dr Hugo Bourdon, ophthalmic surgeon at the Clinique Saint-Michel ELSAN and the Centre Iris – Institut Toulonnais d’Ophtalmologie (281 rue Jean Jaurès, Toulon).