SILK eye surgery, or Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis, is a modern laser vision correction procedure designed to treat refractive errors like myopia and astigmatism. Unlike traditional methods such as LASIK or PRK, SILK eye surgery uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea with minimal invasiveness, providing improved visual outcomes.
This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who experience discomfort or complications with other vision correction methods. It maintains corneal stability, reduces dry eye syndrome, and provides a smooth healing process. SILK eye surgery is gaining popularity due to its precision and long-term effectiveness in treating refractive errors.
Myopia Treatment Using SILK Surgery
SILK eye surgery follows a meticulous approach to ensure optimal visual correction.
If you’re considering treatment and want to understand why the procedure is highly recommended for myopia treatment, learn more from our blog on SILK surgery.
Pre-Surgery Assessment
Before undergoing the surgery, patients undergo a thorough eye examination. This includes:
- Corneal Thickness Measurement: Ensures the cornea is thick enough to support the procedure.
- Refractive Error Assessment: Establishes the degree of myopia and whether SILK is the appropriate procedure.
- Tear Film Analysis: Evaluates eye moisture levels to prevent dry eye complications.
Laser Reshaping
During the procedure:
- Anaesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eyes.
- A femtosecond laser creates a precise lenticule (a thin layer of corneal tissue) within the cornea.
- The surgeon gently removes the lenticule, effectively reshaping the cornea to correct vision.
- The procedure is completed within 10 to 15 minutes per eye, with minimal discomfort.
Post-Procedure Care
Post-surgery care is crucial for successful recovery. Patients must:
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infections.
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes for at least a week.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses when stepping outdoors.
- Limit screen time for a few days to reduce eye strain.
SILK Eye Surgery Eligibility
Not all individuals qualify for SILK eye surgery. A thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist determines suitability. Ideal candidates include:
- Individuals with stable myopia prescriptions for at least a year.
- Patients with a corneal thickness above approximately 500 cm.
- Individuals without pre-existing eye conditions such as keratoconus or glaucoma.
- Adults over 18 years, as younger patients’ vision may still be changing.
SILK Eye Surgery Advantages
SILK eye surgery offers several benefits over traditional vision correction procedures:
- Minimally invasive: No large incision or flap creation.
- Fast recovery: Most patients resume daily activities within a few days.
- Reduced dry eye risk: Unlike LASIK, which involves corneal flap creation, SILK preserves corneal nerves, minimising dryness.
- Enhanced visual clarity: High precision laser correction results in clearer vision.
SILK Eye Surgery Side Effects
Although SILK eye surgery is generally safe, some patients may experience:
- Temporary visual disturbances, such as glare or halos, particularly at night.
- Mild discomfort or dryness, which can be managed with lubricating eye drops.
- Under-correction or over-correction, requiring enhancement procedures.
- Corneal haze, although rare, can affect visual clarity in some cases.
SILK Eye Surgery Cost
The SILK eye surgery cost varies based on:
- Clinic location and reputation.
- Surgeon’s expertise.
- Technology and equipment used.
- Post-surgery care package offered.
At Planet LASIK, the procedure cost starts at ₹1,30,000, with flexible EMI options available for patients. During your consultation, a detailed cost breakdown will inform you of the pricing structure.
Comparison with Other Surgeries
SILK vs. LASIK
- SILK does not create a corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap complications.
- SILK provides slightly faster visual recovery.
SILK vs. SMILE
- SILK is considered an improved version of SMILE, refining the small-incision concept.
- Both surgeries involve minimal invasiveness, but SILK offers better corneal preservation.
SILK vs. PRK
- PRK requires removal of the outer corneal layer, leading to longer recovery times.
- SILK preserves the cornea’s integrity, ensuring a faster healing process.
Read more about Comparing Advanced Vision Correction Techniques: SILK vs. SMILE vs. LASIK.
Recovery
A structured recovery plan helps ensure optimal visual results.
First 24 Hours
- Patients may experience mild discomfort and blurred vision.
- Resting the eyes and avoiding bright light exposure is recommended.
First Week
- Vision stabilises, but fluctuations may occur.
- Avoid intense physical activity and swimming to prevent infections.
One Month
- Most patients achieve full visual clarity.
- Follow-up visits ensure proper healing.
Three Months
- Vision is fully stabilised with long-term results.
- The final evaluation determines if any enhancement is required.
Consult with an eye specialist to determine if SILK eye surgery is right for you. Schedule a Consultation!
FAQs
How is the post-operative care and recovery after SILK Eye Surgery?
Patients can resume their daily tasks within 24hrs of the surgery. However, some activities, such as swimming or other sports, may need to be avoided for a few weeks until complete healing.
Is SILK Eye Surgery suitable for everyone with myopia?
Yes, but there are certain criteria that need to be fulfilled like the refractive range is up to -12.00 D with astigmatism and without astigmatism up to -6.00 D. Also, patients must be at least 18 yrs of age with a stable refractive error for 6 months and should not be pregnant or lactating.
How can I schedule a consultation and evaluation for SILK Eye Surgery in India?
In the world of digitalization, now booking an appointment even with the best doctors can be done through fingertips. Find you the best eye surgeon at your location here.
What can I expect in terms of results and improved vision after SILK Eye Surgery?
SILK Surgery brings out the best vision within the 24hrs; however, patients have claimed that in the coming 3-4 weeks, vision keeps improving.
Can myopia be cured by SILK surgery?
SILK eye surgery corrects myopia by reshaping the cornea, reducing dependency on glasses or contact lenses. However, age-related vision changes may still occur.
Which surgery is best for myopia?
The best surgery depends on the individual’s eye condition. SILK, LASIK, and SMILE all offer effective treatment, but SILK is preferred for its minimally invasive approach and faster recovery.
What is the SILK eye surgery age limit?
Patients must typically be at least 18 years old to undergo SILK surgery. There is no strict upper age limit, but older individuals should be screened for conditions like cataracts or presbyopia.