LASIK Surgery Explained: How It Works and What to Expect
June 4th, 2023
If you’re tired of dealing with contact lenses or glasses to correct your refractive errors and improve your distance vision, consider LASIK eye surgery. LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis; it is a popular type of refractive surgery that uses laser technology to reshape your cornea and improve your vision. In this article, we’ll explain how LASIK surgery works, what you can expect during the procedure, and what to remember as you recover. So, if you’re curious about LASIK surgery, keep reading about LASIK Surgery.
1) The Basics of LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK eye surgery is a refractive laser surgery that reshapes the cornea and improves vision. The surgery is typically recommended for people with vision problems, such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism who are tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses. During LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a corneal flap and uses a laser to reshape the cornea to correct any refractive errors.
The laser-assisted procedure is quick and relatively painless, and it can permanently change the shape of your cornea to improve your distance vision. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, LASIK is a good option.
2) Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK Surgery?
LASIK eye surgery is a known and effective way to correct common vision problems, but it’s not suitable for everyone. So who is a good candidate for LASIK surgery? Generally speaking, candidates for LASIK should be at least 18 years old, have stable vision for at least one year, and have a refractive error within specific parameters.
This means that the candidate’s prescription for glasses or contact lenses should not be too strong or too weak, and their cornea should be thick enough to undergo the procedure safely. Candidates for LASIK should also have healthy eyes and be free from certain eye conditions and diseases. If you’re considering LASIK, it’s best to consult an experienced eye surgeon who can evaluate your eyes and determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
3) What Does LASIK Eye Surgery Do?
LASIK eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery that uses laser technology to reshape the cornea and improve vision. The cornea is the transparent external layer of the eye that helps focus light rays onto the retina. Any imperfections in its shape can lead to refractive errors, such as hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism.
4) Conditions that Increase Risks
While LASIK eye surgery is generally considered safe and effective, certain conditions can increase the risks associated with the procedure. For example, people with thin corneas or other corneal abnormalities may not be good candidates for LASIK, as the surgery can weaken the cornea and make it more prone to complications. Similarly, people with certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, diabetes, or other systemic illnesses, may not be good candidates for LASIK, as these conditions can affect the body’s ability to heal and increase the risk of complications.
Other conditions that may increase LASIK surgery risks include severe dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and certain eye infections or injuries. It’s important to discuss your medical history and any existing eye conditions with your eye surgeon before undergoing LASIK surgery to ensure that you’re a good candidate and that the risks are minimized.
5) What Happens Before LASIK eye surgery?
Before LASIK eye surgery, you must undergo a comprehensive eye exam to determine your eligibility for the procedure. During this exam, your eye doctor will evaluate the shape and thickness of your cornea, measure your refractive error, and check for any underlying eye conditions or diseases that may affect your candidacy for LASIK.
You may also be asked about your medical history and any medications you’re taking. If you’re a good candidate for LASIK, you must schedule a surgical consultation with an experienced eye surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will explain the LASIK procedure, answer any questions you may have, and give instructions on how to prepare for the surgery.
The surgeon may also take detailed measurements of your eyes using specialized equipment, which will be used to create a personalized treatment plan for your LASIK surgery.
6) What Happens During The Surgery?
During LASIK surgery, you will be given eye drops as well as a mild anasthetic to relax the patient and make them happy. The surgeon will create a thin flap on the surface of your cornea using a femtosecond laser. Next, the surgeon will use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors.
After the cornea has been reshaped, the surgeon will carefully place the corneal flap back into position, where it will naturally adhere to the underlying tissue without needing stitches. Many patients experience improved vision immediately after surgery, and they continue improving for a few days after the procedure. The results are typically permanent!. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is essential to ensure proper healing outcomes.
7) Does LASIK Permanently Fix Your Eyesight?
LASIK surgery can permanently correct your refractive error and improve your vision. Still, it’s important to note that the procedure does not prevent age-related changes to the eye or other eye conditions that may arise later in life. After LASIK, your vision may be stable and transparent for many years, but as you age, you may still experience changes to your eyesight, such as presbyopia or cataracts.
Sometimes, a touch-up procedure may be necessary to maintain optimal vision. It’s also important to note that LASIK cannot correct all types of refractive errors or eye conditions, and some people may still need to wear contact lenses or glasses after the procedure. However, for many people, LASIK can be a life-changing procedure that significantly improves their quality of life and reduces their dependence on corrective eyewear.
8) LASIK Surgery at Bagan Strinden Vision
If you’re considering LASIK, Bagan Strinden Vision is a top-rated provider with a team of experienced eye surgeons who can help you achieve better vision and reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Our state-of-the-art facility uses the most recent technology and techniques to ensure optimal outcomes and minimal downtime. Plus, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to your post-operative care.
Improve your vision and quality of life – schedule a consultation with Bagan Strinden today and take the first step towards clear, sharp vision without glasses or contact lenses.