No, contact lenses are not directly used during the LASIK laser enhancement procedure itself.
However, they play a supporting role in certain cases before or after the procedure to manage specific conditions or optimise outcomes.
For individuals considering LASIK laser enhancement, understanding the purpose of contact lenses and how they tie into the overall process can offer clarity in decision-making. This blog explores the relationship between contact lenses and LASIK in detail, helping readers make informed choices about their vision correction procedures.
What is LASIK Laser Enhancement?
Before discussing the potential role of contact lenses, it’s essential to clarify what LASIK laser enhancement entails. LASIK laser enhancement is an additional procedure performed to enhance or refine the visual outcomes of an initial LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) surgery. While standard LASIK surgery is successful for most patients, a small percentage may require enhancements to correct residual refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism.
Enhancements are typically minor and ensure optimal vision clarity, particularly for individuals whose eyesight regresses slightly after their first LASIK surgery.
Why are Contact Lenses Not Used During LASIK Enhancements?
Contact lenses are not a tool or medium involved during the actual laser procedure of LASIK enhancements. LASIK involves reshaping the cornea with a precise laser to correct refractive errors. The procedure relies on advanced mapping technology, surgical tools, and the laser itself.
Contact lenses, by contrast, are temporary optical aids that are primarily used to improve or assist vision. Since LASIK is designed to permanently address vision correction issues, contact lenses don’t have a direct function in the enhancement surgery.
That said, contact lenses may be relevant in other stages of the LASIK process, which we’ll elaborate on below.
Pre-LASIK Enhancement Role of Contact Lenses
Discontinuation Before Assessment
If you regularly wear contact lenses, you may be asked to stop wearing them before LASIK enhancement surgery or even before the initial LASIK procedure. Why? Contact lenses alter the natural shape of your cornea, which could impact the accuracy of the corneal measurements used to customise the laser settings.
- Soft Contact Lenses: Discontinue use approximately 1-2 weeks prior to surgery as advised by your doctor.
- Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses (RGP) or hard lenses require longer discontinuation, often 3-4 weeks for the cornea to stabilise.
This ensures that the laser reshaping process is based on your natural corneal state, not a cornea temporarily altered by lens wear.
Diagnostic Use of Specialised Contact Lenses
For patients with irregular corneas or other complexities, specialised diagnostic contact lenses like Rigid Gas Permeable or Scleral Lenses may temporarily be used to evaluate corneal health or simulate potential outcomes. However, these are strictly pre-assessment tools and not part of the actual procedure.
Post-LASIK Enhancement Role of Contact Lenses
After LASIK enhancements, some patients may temporarily rely on contact lenses to address medical needs, promote healing, or improve comfort.
Therapeutic Bandage Contact Lenses
Bandage contact lenses are often recommended post-LASIK enhancement for specific cases. These specialised lenses are soft, protective layers placed directly over the cornea to promote healing, minimise discomfort, and protect the surface.
- When Are Bandage Lenses Used?
- Patients experiencing corneal dryness, epithelial defects, or minor irritation.
- Situations requiring corneal protection after enhancement surgery.
- Duration
These lenses are typically worn for a few days to a week, depending on recovery. They are removed by the surgeon at follow-up appointments.
Visual Guidance in Temporary Regression Cases
If there’s some degree of vision regression after the initial enhancement, patients might rely on contact lenses to maintain clarity until further corrective action is taken. However, as these cases are rare, the primary goal of LASIK enhancement is to eliminate long-term reliance on lenses.
Managing Visual Outcomes with Rigid Contact Lenses
When dealing with irregular astigmatism or ectasia (a rare post-LASIK complication where the cornea develops an abnormal bulge), rigid contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, may be prescribed as part of the post-enhancement plan. These lenses help stabilise vision and improve focus by masking irregular corneal surfaces.
Differences Between LASIK and Contact Lens Correction
To appreciate why contact lenses are supplementary and not integral to LASIK, it helps to understand the fundamental differences between the two:
- Purpose
- LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to address refractive issues.
- Contact lenses are a temporary aid, sitting on the surface of the eye without altering its structure.
- Mechanism
- LASIK uses precise, computer-controlled lasers for tailored corrections.
- Contact lenses rely on light refraction and fit snugly over your cornea.
- Scope of Use
- LASIK is designed to eliminate long-term dependence on corrective aids.
- Contact lenses require routine purchase and maintenance.
How LASIK Candidates Should Prepare if They Wear Contact Lenses?
If you’re considering LASIK laser enhancement and currently wear contact lenses, here are the essential steps to follow:
- Consult the Surgeon Early
Inform your surgeon about your contact lens usage, including the type and duration of wear.
- Follow the Doctor’s Instructions
Discontinue lenses before corneal measurements and surgery as recommended.
- Inform About Discomfort
If you’ve experienced complications like dry eyes or corneal abrasions from contact lenses, inform the surgeon to ensure issues are resolved before LASIK enhancements.
- Plan Recovery
Be prepared for the potential use of bandage contact lenses post-surgery, depending on healing needs.
Common Misconceptions About Contact Lenses in LASIK
Myth 1. Contact Lenses Can Replace LASIK
Contact lenses provide temporary correction but do not change the shape or function of the cornea. They are not a permanent solution like LASIK surgery.
Myth 2. Contact Lenses Interfere with Recovery
While contact lenses aren’t part of the actual procedure, temporary therapeutic lenses may aid recovery rather than hinder it.
Myth 3. Contact Lenses and LASIK Don’t Mix
It’s entirely possible to wear contact lenses before and after LASIK, provided proper guidelines are followed.
When Contact Lenses and LASIK Work Together?
Contact lenses and LASIK are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary tools in vision correction and care. While LASIK is designed to eliminate dependency on contact lenses, specific scenarios, such as diagnostics or temporary post-surgery usage, may call for the assistance of lenses.
Taking the Next Step in Your LASIK Journey
LASIK continues to be a revolutionary procedure offering unmatched convenience and long-term vision clarity. While contact lenses are not used in the LASIK laser enhancement procedure itself, they can be a vital supporting tool in preparing for surgery or promoting recovery.
If you’re considering LASIK enhancements, consult with your ophthalmologist about the best practices to ensure a successful procedure and optimal results. Proper preparation—including how to manage any reliance on contact lenses—is key to achieving your vision goals.
