If you’re familiar with how LASIK works, you must know what a corneal flap is. Many individuals who undergo specs removal surgery are often apprehensive about the healing of their corneal flap – and rightfully so! We agree, the thought of a flap just sitting on your cornea can sound scary.
But we’re here to put your worries to rest. The chances of corneal flap dislocation after you undergo vision correction treatment are extremely rare and not as common as you may think.
In this blog, we are going to discuss all you need to know about a corneal flap, how it’s created, its role, and healing.
How is a Flap Created During LASIK?
During LASIK surgery, a thin flap is created on the cornea, using either a mechanical blade (microkeratome) or a femtosecond laser. Most new technologies have ditched the blade and use the laser for precise flap creation.
The flap is then gently lifted so the surgeon can have access to the underlying corneal tissue, which is reshaped (via excimer laser). Reshaping of the cornea results in correction of refractive errors like myopia (nearsightness), astigmatism (cylindrical power), and hyperopia (farsightedness).
Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is carefully placed back in its original position. No stitches are needed as the flap naturally heals by adhering to the cornea on its own.
How Soon Does the Corneal Flap Heal?
Corneal flap healing begins within minutes after the procedure. In the first few days post-op, the flap adheres to the underlying tissue and becomes stable. Over the next few weeks, the neighbouring tissue continues to heal, making regular outdoor activities safe. The cornea gradually becomes structurally stable in the long term, but edge strength may take some time to develop fully.
*Note: Just like any other surgery, recovery after LASIK, too, varies person to person. It is important not to compare recovery timelines and continue taking the necessary precautionary steps to promote healing.
Can the LASIK Flap Reopen?
A fully healed corneal flap won’t just pop open or come undone on its own. This is why it is important to adhere to your doctor’s post-op recovery instructions so you can facilitate a smooth and quick healing period for your flap.
So, if you’ve heard any misconceptions that say daily activities like sleeping, digital screen use, blinking, exercising, and cycling, etc., can pose a risk – do not believe them! These conditions typically do not lead to displacement once healing is complete.
You simply need to be mindful so as not to make sudden jerks or movements during the initial recovery phase or indulge in any heavy activities or contact sports right after LASIK.
The only time your flap could be dislodged is if your eye experiences significant mechanical force (in rare cases). This is why surgeons stress the importance of safeguarding your eyes during the initial recovery stage and avoiding activities that could lead to an injury.
Factors that Increase the Risk of Flap Displacement
Excessive Eye Rubbing
This is the most common and preventable cause of corneal flap displacement. Rubbing your eyes vigorously, especially during the initial post-op phase, can disrupt the healing and lead to displacement. Temporary (and normal) dryness, itching, or irritation may tempt you to rub your eyes, but remember, doing that can interfere with your eye’s healing process.
Eye Injury
Any direct impact on your eyes during contact sports or physically strenuous activities can potentially displace the flap. So if you’re a big cricket or football junkie, or can’t go a day without working out or swimming, hold off on those until your doctor gives you a green light.
Dry Eye Syndrome
If you’re someone who has had dry eyes before LASIK, it is crucial to follow the prescribed eye drop routine given to you by your doctor for achieving optimal comfort and a smooth healing period. When left untreated, dry eyes can lead to irritation and even encourage rubbing.
Read More: Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options
How Are Flap-Related Complications Treated?
On the off chance that you do experience a corneal flap displacement, do not panic. These complications are generally treatable when addressed immediately. All you need to do is not waste your time on home remedies and visit your doctor. The surgeon will gently reposition the flap and smooth it back into its original spot.
Signs of a Flap-related Complication
To seek immediate medical attention, you need to be aware of the signs that may indicate a flap displacement.
- Sudden vision problems after initially clear post-op vision
- Excessive eye pain or discomfort
- Significant redness
- New disturbances in vision (halos and glare that were not present before)
- A sensation of something moving or feeling out of place in the eye
Safeguard Your Eyes After LASIK
- Wear protective eyewear to avoid foreign objects getting in the eye
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Use the prescribed eye drops strictly
- Avoid using contact lenses during the recovery period
- Attend all follow-up appointments for recovery monitoring
Although flap displacement is very uncommon, it always helps to stay informed so you can take the necessary steps to aid a faster and smoother recovery period.
Still have apprehensions? We’re here to help! Contact us at +91 87250-01333, our dedicated patient counsellors will explain the complete LASIK procedure to you and answer all your doubts. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment with the best LASIK surgeons in Chandigarh at Sohana Hospital and get all the answers you want straight from the experts.
