The Excimer Laser in Laser Eye Surgery


Laser Eye Surgery in the UK

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Excimer LaserLasers have been used in eye procedures for the past three decades.  A laser is a highly condensed light.  Laser eye surgery uses excimer lasers.  These are ultraviolet lasers that produce a small diameter laser beam, which makes it easier to maintain uniformity in the energy levels across the beam.  The laser is used to remove tissue and correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism by scanning of the beam across the cornea.  The laser is pre-programmed based on the results of the initial assessments completed by the eye surgeon.  Tiny spots of light beams are sent to the cornea in order to change the shape to what is required for improved vision.  The laser changes the chemical nature of the molecules that hold together the cells of the cornea.  This change causes this “glue” to release the corneal cells, and they rapidly escape from the cornea in a plume.  Thus, excimer lasers do not burn or cut the cornea but instead cause the cornea to fall apart in layers.  The laser completes its work in a matter of seconds.  

The excimer laser is computer controlled and is programmed to custom treat each individual eye with a high degree of accuracy and precision.  It was originally used for etching silicone computer chips in the 1970’s, where researchers saw its potential in interacting with biological tissue.  They discovered that they could remove tissue with a laser without causing any heat damage to the surrounding material.  The first laser surgery on a patient’s eye was conducted in 1987.  Since, the techniques and equipment for laser eye surgery have been perfected and today the excimer laser has an international track record for safety and effectiveness.

26th November 2008

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