Page 148 - Nov- Dec 2024

THE VITAL ROLE OF

OPTOMETRISTS

IN REFRACTIVE SURGERY

efractive surgeries such as LASIK, SMILE,
and PRK have gained popularity among
Rindividuals seeking freedom from glasses
or contact lenses, offering significant benefits
but not without risks. A crucial yet often
overlooked step is consulting an optometrist
before surgery. Although a surgeon performs
the procedure, an optometrist plays an essential
role in assessing suitability, ensuring eye health,
and providing long-term care.
This article discusses why a pre-surgery
consultation with an optometrist is vital, the risks
of skipping this step, and explores non-surgical
alternatives.
WHY CONSULT AN OPTOMETRIST
BEFORE REFRACTIVE SURGERY?
 Tear Film and Dry Eye: Pre-existing dry
Optometrists are trained to conduct eye syndrome can worsen after surgery,
comprehensive evaluations before surgery to causing discomfort and fluctuating vision.
ensure your eyes are healthy, your prescription is An optometrist can diagnose and treat
stable, and surgery is safe. Key factors assessed by dry eye to promote smoother recovery.
optometrists include:
 Eye Alignment and Binocular Vision:
 Corneal Thickness: Adequate corneal Proper alignment ensures both eyes work
thickness is essential, especially for LASIK together effectively. Any misalignment
and SMILE. Thin corneas increase the risk of can lead to issues such as double vision
complications like corneal ectasia, where the after surgery, which should be managed
cornea weakens and bulges post-surgery. before the procedure.

142 | THE INDIAN OPTICIAN | NOV-DEC 2024 OPTOMETRY