Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most common form of laser eye surgery done today. It is an outpatient surgical procedure that can be used to treat nearly all forms of vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The only vision problem LASIK is not able to treat is presbyopia, which is usually caused by old age.
The procedure works by using a small laser to reshape the cornea on the front of the eye. When the process is finished, the laser will have altered the way your eye focuses light rays, which results in significantly improved vision.
It's important to remember that laser eye surgery is just that, surgery. Patients will not be sedated while their eyes are being worked on, but will be given eye numbing drops so they won't feel anything. After that, patients will lean back in a reclining position. An eyelid holder will be placed on your eyes to prevent you from blinking while the laser is doing its work. Next, a ring, similar to a suction cup, is placed over your eye. You will feel some pressure and your vision will go black or faded, this is normal.
At this point is when the laser starts to do its work. Your eye surgeon will cut off a flap of your eye and the laser will begin to sculpt the corneal tissue. When the laser has finished doing this, the surgeon places the flap back over your pupil and the surgery is done. The laser process only lasts about a minute, though the examination beforehand can last about 30 minutes. Patients should take off from work the day of the surgery and also arrange for a ride home. Napping is often recommended as it gives your eyes a chance to rest.
In most cases, patients are able to drive and function normally the following day. The only exception is that you may need to wear a transparent shield over your eye to keep you from accidentally rubbing them, especially in your sleep. If you accidentally apply too much pressure to your eye before it has time to heal properly, the flap that the surgeon cut early risks coming undone. If this happens, you will need an additional surgery to fix it.
While LASIK surgery is commonly done and usually has outstanding results of 20/20 vision, it is not for everyone. Those who have dry eyes may not have as much improvement as those without, for example. If you have large pupils, keratoconus, thin corneas, or very poor vision, you should meet with an eye specialist beforehand and discuss your risks. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should also avoid the surgery for the time being.
Another important factor is your age. Laser eye surgery is not recommended for those under 21 years of age, because your eyes are still growing and adjusting. Even after 21, some patients may not be good candidates for the surgery depending on their eye growth. You should always have a pre-LASIK exam to discuss these factors, as there are risks with the surgery and any of these conditions increase the chance of something going wrong.
Larry Lim writes online articles and press releases on a wide range of topics from internet marketing and education to property, with a focus on the Southeast Asian region. He is currently trending on LASIK Singapore, particularly on LASIK side effects and LASIK eye surgery cost.
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