Vision without barriers

How laser surgery changes lives and opens new horizons

For many people, wearing glasses or contact lenses is a regular part of life, but for others, these optical aids can be a source of limitation and discomfort. Thanks to constant advancements in ophthalmology, these individuals now have other options. Laser eye surgeries offer an effective and gentle solution for correcting refractive errors.

Glasses can be a hassle all year round – in summer, they prevent wearing sunglasses and safe swimming, while in winter, they fog up and are impractical for sports. Contact lenses are also not ideal, as they carry a risk of infection when swimming in the summer, and in winter, they can dry out the eyes. Laser vision correction can be a solution that literally changes the lives of many people.

"People who want to enjoy life without limitations most often seek laser eye surgery. Our patients often include people who are actively involved in sports, professionals who need clear and sharp vision for their daily work, and individuals who simply desire a more aesthetically pleasing appearance without glasses. Laser eye surgery can be the key to greater comfort, freedom, and quality of life for these individuals," says Andrea Janeková, MD, FEBO, who performs laser surgeries at Eye Centre Prague.

A Life-changing procedure in just a few minutes

Laser surgery is suitable for correcting eye conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It is especially recommended for younger patients aged 20–45 who have had stable prescriptions for at least one year.

At Eye Centre Prague, we most commonly use the state-of-the-art ReLEx SMILE method for refractive error correction. This method is very gentle, precise, and completely painless for the eye. Another advantage is the minimal risk of developing dry eye syndrome.

"The surgery is performed using a femtosecond laser, which, based on precise calculations, adjusts the required number of diopters without compromising the strength and stability of the cornea. Thanks to the minimal intervention, the healing and recovery time is very short, and the patient returns almost immediately to normal life after the procedure," explains Dr. Janeková, adding: "The patient will notice the result immediately after the surgery, and most patients achieve 90% of visual sharpness by the second day."

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and is completely painless. The surgery lasts approximately 20 minutes, and both eyes are operated on the same day. The actual laser treatment takes only a few seconds. On the day of the surgery, we recommend that patients relax and rest, but by the second day, their vision sharpness stabilizes, and they can return to work and regular activities. The eye almost fully heals within two weeks after the surgery.

From decision to results

"We recommend that anyone considering laser eye surgery schedule a consultation, where a detailed preoperative examination will be performed, and all questions and uncertainties will be addressed. It is always important to keep in mind that the suitability for laser surgery is individual, and it can only be recommended based on a comprehensive preoperative examination," explains Dr. Janeková.

Based on the results, the doctor will recommend the appropriateness of laser refractive surgery. All of this information will help potential patients decide whether or not to undergo the procedure. The experiences of patients at Eye Centre Prague who have already undergone ReLEx SMILE laser surgery could also provide helpful insights.

"I decided on laser eye surgery mainly because of sports. Glasses were getting in the way, and I could never wear contact lenses. After the surgery, I have perfect vision for distance, and even a year after the procedure, I am still amazed by the quality of my vision – it's a miracle. Every morning, when I open my eyes and see clearly without glasses, it confirms that I made the right decision. I would recommend anyone who is hesitant to go for it. It's an investment in life that you won’t regret," says Mr. Petr Novák, who underwent the ReLEx SMILE procedure exactly one year ago.

Ms. Klára Koudelková had a different reason for undergoing the surgery, which she shared in the guestbook at Eye Centre Prague: "You have significantly improved both my vision and my life. I feel more attractive, not only to myself but also to my husband. The quality of my vision is now many times better. Goodbye to foggy, framed, and contact-lens-restricted vision!"

Laser surgery truly changes the lives of patients at Eye Centre Prague. During follow-up appointments after the surgery, patients express how thrilled they are with their new vision and enjoy clear sight in every detail every day.