Laser Eye Surgery (Refractive Surgery) in Tirana
Laser eye surgery (laser vision correction) corrects myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, with the aim of reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses. At the Indian Eye Institute and Laser Center in Tirana, under the care of Dr. Nishant Taneja, the method — SMILE Pro, Femto-LASIK or PRK — is chosen after a full eye examination.
Can astigmatism be cured? Astigmatism does not go away with eye drops or exercises: it is corrected with glasses or contact lenses. For a lasting correction, laser surgery is used (Femto-LASIK up to ±6.00 D) or, for higher prescriptions, ICL lenses (up to 6.00 D). The method is chosen after a full eye examination.
What Is Laser Eye Surgery (Refractive Surgery)?
Laser eye surgery, also called refractive surgery, includes procedures that reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, so that light is focused more precisely on the retina. The aim is to correct or reduce the refractive error and improve vision without constant reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
Myopia causes blurred distance vision because the image is focused in front of the retina. Hyperopia can cause difficulty with near vision and, depending on the degree of refractive error, distance vision as well, because the image is focused behind the retina. Astigmatism is caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea and can make objects appear blurred, distorted, or shadowed.
The most suitable method is determined by age, refractive error, corneal thickness and shape, tear film, pupil size, and lifestyle. A comprehensive examination is essential before any surgical recommendation is made.
LASER REFRACTIVE SURGERY AT A GLANCE
Duration:
Recovery:
Anesthesia:
Clinical experience:
PHOTO GALLERY
Moments with Our Patients
What Are the Signs of Refractive Errors?
Refractive errors can affect near vision, distance vision, or both. The most common signs include:
Blurred Distance Vision
Difficulty with Near Vision
Distorted or Shadowed Objects
Eye Strain
Headaches
Difficulty with Night Vision
Methods of Laser Refractive Surgery
The most appropriate method depends on the refractive error, the shape and thickness of the cornea, the health of the ocular surface, and the patient’s activities. Dr. Nishant Taneja assesses each case individually before making a recommendation.
SMILE Pro
SMILE Pro is a modern, flap-free technique. A femtosecond laser creates a very thin lenticule within the cornea, which is removed through an incision only a few millimeters wide. Removing the lenticule changes the shape of the cornea and corrects the refractive error.
The procedure is performed using a single femtosecond laser system, and the actual laser application takes only a few seconds. The small incision preserves more of the corneal surface and nerves, which may reduce dry eye symptoms and support a rapid recovery.
Femto-LASIK
Femto-LASIK is a LASIK procedure performed without a mechanical blade. A femtosecond laser creates a thin, precisely controlled flap in the cornea. The flap is temporarily lifted, and an excimer laser reshapes the tissue beneath it according to the patient’s refractive error.
After the correction, the flap is repositioned and heals without stitches. Femto-LASIK allows for customized treatment planning and is usually associated with rapid visual improvement.
The PRK Method
PRK is a surface-based procedure that does not create a corneal flap. The cornea’s regenerative outer layer is removed, after which an excimer laser reshapes its surface.
PRK may be recommended for selected patients with thinner corneas, mild corneal irregularities, or lifestyles that carry a higher risk of eye trauma. Recovery is slower than after SMILE Pro or Femto-LASIK, and some discomfort may occur while the corneal surface heals.
For patients who are not suitable candidates for laser treatment because of a high refractive error, a thin cornea, or an irregular corneal shape, implantation of phakic intraocular lenses may be considered. This option is recommended only after a comprehensive examination.
No procedure is completely risk-free. In the first weeks most patients have dry eyes and vision that fluctuates during the day; these usually settle within about a month, but not always. Glare, halos around lights or difficulty seeing in dim light may occur, especially at night. The correction may turn out slightly smaller or larger than intended; this can often be improved with glasses, contact lenses or an additional laser treatment. Serious complications, such as infection or vision worse than before surgery, are rare and are discussed individually before treatment.
Benefits of Laser Refractive Surgery
Refractive surgery aims to correct how light is focused and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Results depend on the refractive error, the selected method, and the individual characteristics of the eye.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), about 9 out of 10 people who have LASIK end up with vision between 20/20 and 20/40 without glasses or contact lenses. The individual result depends on the prescription and the condition of the eye.
Less Dependence on Glasses
Quick Procedure
Customized Correction
Quick Return to Daily Life
Choice of Multiple Methods
Customized Vision Correction Solutions
SMILE Pro
SMILE Pro is a minimally invasive, flapless procedure that does not involve the use of a blade. A thin lenticule is created within the cornea and removed through a small incision.
- A flapless procedure
- A small incision of just a few millimeters
- Greater preservation of the corneal surface
- Relatively quick recovery
Femto-LASIK
Femto-LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin corneal flap and an excimer laser to correct the refractive error.
- Flap creation without the need for a surgical blade
- Controlled flap thickness and shape
- Customized excimer laser treatment
- Rapid improvement in vision
The PRK Method
PRK reshapes the cornea at the surface without creating a flap. The epithelium gradually regenerates after the procedure.
- Selected patients with thinner corneas
- Mild irregularities of the corneal surface
- People at higher risk of eye trauma
- Patients who are comfortable with a more gradual recovery
What to Expect
01. Comprehensive Eye Examination
The examination includes measuring the refractive error and visual acuity, corneal topography and thickness, aberrometry, pupil size, intraocular pressure, and tear film assessment.
The pupils are dilated to objectively measure the refractive error and examine the optic nerve, macula, and peripheral retina. The eye must be healthy, and any other conditions must be treated or brought under control before surgery.
The examination usually takes around 90–120 minutes. Contact lenses must not be worn before the appointment for the period specified by the clinic, as they can temporarily alter the shape of the cornea and affect the accuracy of the measurements.
Because the pupils are dilated, vision may be temporarily blurred, and the patient should not drive after the examination.
02. Procedure
Refractive surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia administered as eye drops. The eye is held open with a special speculum, and the patient remains awake throughout the procedure.
In SMILE Pro, the femtosecond laser creates a lenticule within the cornea, which is removed through a small incision. In Femto-LASIK, a corneal flap is created with a femtosecond laser, and the cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser. In PRK, the epithelium is removed, and the excimer laser reshapes the corneal surface.
Tracking systems monitor the position and micromovements of the eye during treatment. The procedure usually takes around 5–10 minutes per eye.
After a brief check-up, the patient may leave the clinic. Transportation home should be arranged, and the eyes should be rested for the remainder of the day.
03. Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery depends on the method selected. After SMILE Pro or Femto-LASIK, vision usually begins to clear quickly, and many patients return to their usual activities within 1–3 days. After PRK, the corneal surface usually heals within 4–7 days, while vision takes longer to stabilize.
During the first few days, tearing, sensitivity to light, a scratchy sensation, blurring, or fluctuations in vision may occur. After PRK, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye until the epithelium heals.
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops, as well as artificial tears, must be used according to the clinic’s schedule. The patient should avoid rubbing the eyes, tap water, dust, makeup, and strenuous activities for the recommended period.
Swimming, contact sports, and weightlifting should be resumed only after the doctor’s approval. Worsening pain, severe redness, discharge, or a sudden decrease in vision require immediate contact with the clinic.
Diagnostics and Technology
Corneal Topography
The OCULUS Pentacam HR and CSO topographers create detailed maps of the front and back surfaces of the cornea. The measurements show its curvature, thickness, and any irregularities that may affect suitability for laser surgery.
The patient sits in front of the device and rests their chin and forehead on the supports while images are captured automatically. The examination is painless, and the results are available immediately.
Aberrometry
The Tracey iTrace and CSO IRX devices analyze refractive error and higher-order optical aberrations. These measurements help assess visual quality and plan personalized treatments.
The examination takes only a few seconds, does not touch the eye, and provides the results digitally.
Pupillometry
The pupillometer measures pupil size under different lighting conditions. The pupil diameter at night is taken into account when determining the treatment zone to reduce the likelihood of glare and halos around lights.
SMILE Pro Technology
SMILE Pro uses a femtosecond laser to create the lenticule and the small incision during the same procedure. For selected corrections, actual laser exposure may last less than 10 seconds.
The technology is computer-controlled and assists with treatment positioning and planning based on the measurements of each eye.
Femtosecond and Excimer Lasers
The femtosecond laser is used to create a controlled flap during Femto-LASIK, while the excimer laser reshapes the cornea according to the patient’s refractive error.
Modern systems include eye tracking, positioning control and customized treatment programs. These features help deliver laser energy to the planned area, even during micromovements of the eye.
Alternatives for Patients Who Are Not Candidates for Laser Surgery
Patients with very high refractive errors, thin corneas or irregular corneal shape may not be suitable candidates for SMILE Pro, Femto-LASIK or PRK. In these cases, phakic intraocular lens implantation may be considered. These lenses are placed inside the eye without removing the natural lens. Laser vision correction does not remove cataracts; we explain why in can cataracts be removed with a laser?
Implantable Collamer Lens – ICL
The ICL is placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It is invisible, is not usually felt by the patient, and is made of a biocompatible material with anti-reflective properties and UV protection.
Depending on the model and the eye measurements, an ICL can correct myopia from −0.50 D to −18.00 D, hyperopia from +0.50 D to +8.00 D, and astigmatism up to 6.00 D. It may also be suitable for patients with thin corneas or corneas unsuitable for laser treatment.
Artisan and Artiflex Lenses
Artisan and Artiflex lenses are placed in front of the pupil and attached to the iris. They may be recommended when the prescription is outside the ICL range or when the structure of the eye does not allow a lens to be safely placed behind the iris. These lenses correct high prescriptions and astigmatism while preserving the natural lens and the eye’s ability to change focus.
Procedure and Patient Selection
Phakic lenses are implanted through a small incision that usually does not require sutures. The lens can be removed or replaced if the prescription changes or if medically necessary.
Before surgery, the prescription, anterior chamber depth, intraocular pressure, and corneal endothelial cell count are measured, and the retina is examined. These findings determine whether the patient is suitable for an ICL, Artisan, or Artiflex lens.
SMILE Pro, Femto-LASIK or PRK? Comparing the Methods
| SMILE Pro | Femto-LASIK | PRK | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | A femtosecond laser creates a lenticule inside the cornea, which is removed through a small incision | A femtosecond laser creates a flap; an excimer laser reshapes the cornea beneath it | The surface layer of the cornea is removed and an excimer laser reshapes the surface |
| Flap | No | Yes | No |
| Incision | A few millimetres | Thin corneal flap | No incision; the epithelium regenerates |
| Return to normal activities | Usually 1–3 days | Usually 1–3 days | The surface heals within 4–7 days; vision stabilises more slowly |
| May be preferred | When a flap-free procedure with a small incision is wanted | For personalised correction with a quick recovery | Thinner corneas, mild irregularities, higher risk of blows to the eye |
The final method is chosen by Dr. Taneja after corneal measurements and a comprehensive examination. You can find a step-by-step comparison of the two most requested methods in the difference between SMILE Pro and Femto-LASIK.
Who Is a Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser surgery is usually suitable when:
- you are over 18 (ideally over 21, when the prescription usually stops changing);
- your glasses or contact lens prescription has not changed significantly in the last year;
- the cornea is thick enough and healthy, and your eyes are generally healthy;
- you have realistic expectations about what the laser can and cannot do.
It is usually not recommended, or needs a specific assessment, in pregnancy or breastfeeding, keratoconus, severe dry eye, thin or scarred corneas, poorly controlled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, advanced glaucoma or a cataract that affects vision. Contact sports with frequent blows to the face are discussed before choosing the method. When laser is not suitable, phakic lenses (ICL, Artisan/Artiflex) may be considered.
How Much Does Laser Eye Surgery Cost?
The price depends on the method (SMILE Pro, Femto-LASIK or PRK), on whether one or both eyes are treated, and on the examinations before surgery and the check-ups afterwards. The exact price is given after a full examination, once it is clear which method suits your eyes.
Indian Eye Clinic Tirana: 15+ Years of Trust
Retina | Cataract | Refractive Surgery
The right care for a lifetime with clear vision
Every successful treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan. Discover the real stories of patients who trust Indian Eye Institute and Laser Center.
I have advanced glaucoma in both eyes and have undergone glaucoma and cataract surgery with Dr. Taneja. I have been receiving regular follow-up care from Dr. Taneja for the past 11 years.
I am very happy and satisfied with my experiences at Dr. Taneja’s clinic. The staff are helpful, knowledgeable, competent, and very pleasant. Dr. Taneja has worked diligently to preserve my vision, and I am extremely pleased with the care I have received. He deserves recognition for how good he is at what he does. I would recommend him 100% to anyone with serious eye problems.
I have suffered from a long-term problem with floaters in both eyes. Dr. Nishant Taneja is truly an expert in his field who allows patients to consider nonsurgical options as the first course of treatment. He is professional and courteous, treats patients with respect, and communicates clearly in terms that ordinary people can understand. I believe he is honest and straightforward, and he is taking excellent care of me.
I have been a patient of Dr. Nishant Taneja since 2010, when I was diagnosed with wet macular degeneration. He has treated me with Avastin, Eylea, and now brolucizumab, and I can still read large print.
I owe my sight to his treatments. He has taken excellent care of my eyes. The staff are absolutely outstanding in their courtesy and professionalism. I am 93 years old and can still read clearly. Thank you!
When I first came here, I thought I would go blind in my left eye. I was diagnosed with a vitreous hemorrhage caused by detachment of the vitreous gel. After the laser treatment, my vision returned to what it had been before.
I have received excellent medical care here. The entire staff have been very kind and have made everything much easier for me. I am very happy.
Many thanks to the entire staff. The whole process of my cataract surgery and the care I received were the best I have ever experienced at any medical practice. The staff and technology were first-rate. Dr. Taneja is simply phenomenal. Thank you again.
I underwent surgery for a retinal detachment last week. I experienced no pain during or after the operation. I slept well the following night without needing any pain medication. If anyone has questions about retinal surgery, please feel free to call me.
I am impressed by the high standard of patient care I received from Dr. Taneja at the Indian Eye Institute. I hold him in the highest regard.
I have had diabetes for over 30 years. Over the past 5 years, my vision gradually deteriorated. I had been receiving treatment from my ophthalmologist for the previous 4 years. The treatment involved injections, but the situation seemed to be getting worse. I could barely see well enough to drive, could not read anything on my phone, and began having difficulty recognizing people from a distance. I therefore decided to visit Dr. Nishant Taneja on the recommendation of my eye doctor. He was prompt, efficient, and professional. Within minutes, he had mapped out a treatment plan for both of my eyes and advised me to follow it. I was truly impressed by his energy, optimism, and confidence.
After several injections and laser treatments, he said that I needed a vitrectomy in my left eye. It went perfectly, without any complications. My vision in that eye was restored to 20/20. I felt as though I were opening my eyes for the first time.
After I recovered from that procedure, Dr. Taneja said that my right eye also needed surgery. So, without hesitation, I had that eye treated as well. I now have 20/20 vision in both eyes, and everything is wonderful.
I can now see my two young grandchildren clearly. This has improved my quality of life tremendously. Without a doubt, I am probably the happiest patient Dr. Taneja has ever had!
I am delighted to express my appreciation for Dr. Taneja and his exceptional staff.
If you are reading this review while deciding on a retina specialist, you have definitely come to the right place! An excellent doctor and staff. I am more than completely satisfied!
I believe Dr. Taneja is an exceptionally talented surgeon.
I began wearing glasses and contact lenses at the age of 12. I relied on them to see and read. During the spring, pollen irritated my eyes, and I could no longer wear my contact lenses.
After the procedures performed by Dr. Taneja, I went from being unable to see to having clear vision without contact lenses or glasses.
I would recommend Dr. Nishant Taneja for any procedure he performs. He is highly meticulous, compassionate, and understanding.
He worked a miracle for me. I thank God for his talent.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Candidates for LASIK must be over 18 years old, have had a stable prescription for at least one year, and have healthy corneas. The treatment can correct prescriptions from −10.00 D to +6.00 D and astigmatism up to ±6.00 D. Final suitability is determined after a comprehensive eye examination.
No single method is suitable for every patient. SMILE Pro may be preferred when a flap-free procedure with a small incision is desired, Femto-LASIK for customized correction with rapid recovery, and PRK in selected cases where surface treatment is more appropriate. Dr. Taneja selects the method after analyzing all measurements.
Anesthetic eye drops are used during the procedure, and most patients feel only pressure or a light touch. After SMILE Pro or Femto-LASIK, irritation may occur for a few hours. After PRK, discomfort may be more pronounced during the first few days while the corneal surface heals.
Refractive surgery can significantly reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, but complete independence cannot be guaranteed for every patient. The prescription may change over time, and presbyopia may make reading glasses necessary after the age of 40. Individual outcomes and limitations are explained before treatment.
The procedure usually takes about 5–10 minutes per eye and is done as an outpatient procedure with anaesthetic eye drops. You leave the clinic after a short check-up and should arrange transport home.
After SMILE Pro or Femto-LASIK, many patients return to their usual activities within 1–3 days. After PRK, the corneal surface usually heals within 4–7 days, while vision takes longer to stabilise.
The laser corrects myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, but it does not stop presbyopia, the loss of near focus that usually begins after 40. After this age, Dr. Taneja assesses whether laser is the right solution or whether lens-based options for presbyopia correction are more suitable.
Sources
The general medical information on this page is based on:
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