Are you someone who is tired of contact lenses or glasses and looking for a quicker alternative? Don't worry, science has got your back. The latest effective procedure to achieve clear vision is SILK: Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis. It's an advanced, flapless laser procedure that removes a disc-shaped tissue (lenticule) from the cornea to improve your visibility. What exactly is SILK surgery? According to Dr Ikeda Lal, Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram Hospital, SILK is a lenticular-based procedure that removes a sliver of tissue from the cornea to help you eliminate the need for glasses. The amount of tissue depends on the prescription of the glass. Interestingly, another laser surgery already in place is LASIK, a slightly different and less expensive option, which involves cutting a corneal flap that is then lifted to expose the underlying tissue. So how do the two vary? Dr Lal explained, "In LASIK, we create a flap of the cornea and use a laser to reshape your cornea to help you get rid of glasses. The flap is then repositioned back. LASIK is a time-tested procedure that works for all kinds of refractive errors, including cylindrical powers. Visual recovery post-LASIK is faster than that of SILK for most patients. SILK is more expensive than LASIK." For those looking to get rid of their glasses, choosing the right procedure is crucial, with doctors playing a key role. "We help patients choose the right procedure, which depends on various factors: refractive error (glass prescription), corneal topography and thickness. Depending on these factors, we assess a patient's suitability for a particular procedure," added Dr Lal. Most importantly, these procedures are very safe; patients may initially experience some eye dryness. Rest complications are infrequent in the hands of experts. Though slightly expensive, SILK surgery is considered a better option than traditional LASIK. Reason? It's less invasive and flapless, which means there is less post-operative discomfort, a smoother and faster recovery time, and a lower risk of dry eyes. With enhanced safety and technological advancement. Its availability is still limited and involves price constraints, ranging from approximately INR 1.25 to INR 1.75. What is the way forward? Dr Lal suggested that there is a lot of research going on in this field. Even the role of electromagnetic radiation is being assessed. Efforts are also being made to find a way to correct near vision after the age of 40 (presbyopia). DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
