The ASLA Procedure

What is ASLA?
How does ASLA work?
Customised treatments
How is ASLA different from PRK?
The ASLA procedure
Frequently asked questions about ASLA

The ASLA Procedure

Both eyes are routinely treated on the same day and you will spend approximately 20 to 30 minutes in theatre.

So you know what to expect, here is a step-by-step guide of what happens on the day of the procedure.

• When you arrive at Vistaeyes on the day of your procedure, you will have some final tests performed on your eyes as well as some eye drops instilled to dilate your pupils. You will also have the opportunity to meet with Dr Wolfe if you have any further questions to ask.
• If you are feeling nervous you may be offered a sedative tablet to relax you. The great majority of people do not request a sedative, but it is available to you if you wish.
• Local anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye. An eyelid speculum will be positioned to hold your eyelids open. You will remain awake and comfortable throughout the procedure.
• The epithelium (surface layer of cells) is gently removed using a solution on the eye which helps loosen this surface layer.

• You will be asked to look at a fixation light and the excimer laser will then reshape the cornea. Each pulse removes a microscopic layer of the cornea. The total laser time is usually less than one minute per eye, depending on the amount of correction necessary.

• The laser then precisely reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to match your individual refractive error.

• A bandage contact lens is positioned over the eye for protection as the cornea heals, and is removed after 5 days.

• When the procedure is over, you will have some time to relax. The eye drops you will be using and general instructions for your recovery will also be explained and your eyes checked before you leave.
• You should plan to be at the clinic for up to 2½ hours. You will also require someone to drive you home as your vision will still be hazy.

What to expect following your procedure

After your ASLA procedure you will meet with one of our orthoptists or optometrists who will check your eyes. We will explain your post-operative care and you will receive a take home pack with instructions.

• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and spend the rest of the day relaxing at home. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours.
• We will provide you with eye shields - to be worn while sleeping for five nights following your procedure to protect your eyes. It is important in this period that your eyes are not disturbed and the contact lens is positioned well.
• You can expect your vision to be blurry for approximately four to seven days after your procedure; but many can see well the next day. You may also experience some discomfort or a mild gritty sensation within the first one to three days. You are able to return to most normal activities a few days after your procedure. Your vision will improve and sometimes fluctuate within the first weeks as healing occurs.
• We ask that you return to Vistaeyes the following day to have your eyes checked. Routine examinations are also performed at day five, day twelve, one month and four months after your surgery. The contact lens will be removed usually five days after your procedure.

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