CLEAR is an acronym for Corneal Lenticule Extraction for Advanced Refractive Correction. It is also known as CLEAR LASIK or CLEAR flapless surgery. Clear is the latest method in the range of non-invasive lenticular laser-assisted vision correction procedures introduced by the global ophthalmic giant Ziemer Company of Switzerland.
“Cornea Lenticule Extraction for Advanced Refractive-Correction (CLEAR) is a femtosecond laser surgery that corrects myopia and astigmatism without a corneal flap. It is similar to the Small Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) treatment but uses additional features that add to better safety with low-intensity laser”, says Dr Manpreet Singh, chief refractive surgeon at the Global Eye Hospital Patiala in Punjab
What is the CLEAR advantage?
Like other modern refractive procedures, CLEAR also reshapes the cornea to correct focal aberrations and significantly improve the quality of eyesight. Still, it does so. Additionally, it is the latest addition to the lenticular method of laser vision corrections, but it has added advantages over other techniques like SILK, Contoura, and SMILE laser vision corrections.
- No flap creation: CLEAR is lenticular technology, which means the top layer of the cornea is not removed or peeled during the CLEAR procedure, in contrast to Lasik and PRK.
- Rapid recovery: After treatment, most people can return to their everyday routines within a few days.
- Beneficial for dry eyes: CLEAR may be a more suitable choice for individuals who suffer from dry eyes or who are prone to developing them.
Bladeless procedure: There are no blades. It is a bladeless treatment known as CLEAR. - Safest refractive procedure: Clear Lenticular Technology holds a significant advantage over other methods in terms of the safety of eye tissues. Using low-energy pulses, the CLEAR lenticular method ensures that the cornea tissue is as safe as possible due to laser exposure. In addition to saving collateral tissue damage, it allows for speedy healing and makes the procedure more comfortable.
- Best in Precision & Consistency: The technology’s unmatched accuracy changes the way you see and protects your eyes’ delicate structures, making it safe and simple to get rid of your glasses.
CLEAR LASER SURGERY: What happens during a CLEAR procedure?
In the stromal layer of the cornea, a laser produces two fragile bubbles in two layers.
Consequently, a disc-shaped piece of tissue known as the lenticular is produced in this process.
To remove the lenticule, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin.
The shape of the cornea is altered in a permanent way, which results in improved vision.
The CLEAR LASIK procedure is advised for those with dry-eye syndrome, to wear contact lenses for extended periods, like sports and activities that take place outside, and express a desire for a speedy recovery.
After Clear, occasionally, one may experience the following symptoms: blurred vision, a sensation that something is in your eye, and burning or itching. These are pretty temporary, and
for the first six hours, you must keep your eye as closed as possible and avoid touching it. You will also need to wear an eye shield or patch to cover the flap and keep it from rubbing against your eyes.
Get free counselling at Dr Manpreet’s Global Eye Hospital, rated the Best Eye Hospital in Patiala.