If you find wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses cumbersome, lasik is an effective way of correcting vision problems and giving you the freedom to perform certain activities like swimming and other active sports without the limitations that glasses present. Furthermore, you need not worry about broken or damaged glasses that need regular replacement.
Lasik (laser in situ keratomileusis) is a procedure that uses a highly specialized laser to correct refractive errors and improve vision. Refractive errors like short sight, long sight and astigmatism occur when the shape of the eyeball affects the way the cornea (the transparent front part of the eye) focuses images on the retina. The procedure corrects these errors by altering the thickness of the cornea.
This quick and safe surgical procedure involves cutting a thin hinged flap on the cornea, which the surgeon pulls back and applies the excimer laser on the cornea for about 20 seconds to reshape (ablate) it. The area is then dried out and the flap placed back in position. Suturing is unnecessary because the flap bonds securely in position. The treatment involves the use the excimer laser using different ablations. These include conventional laser, Wavefront-guided treatment and Wavefront-optimized treatment.
It is important to note that not everyone is a suitable candidate for Lasik surgery. An eye specialist conducts a thorough eye examination on patients to determine if they are fit to undergo the surgery. You are unsuitable for this procedure if your refractive error has been improving in the past year or if you have certain medical conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Patients under 18 years of age as well as those with keratoconous are considered unsuitable for Lasik. The thickness of the cornea is also measured to establish the amount of ablation needed in order to correct the refractive error. Therefore, if your cornea is too thin, the doctor will not recommended the procedure because it would cause further weakening of the cornea. If you suffer from excessive eye dryness, have an abnormal corneal curvature or have had previous refractive surgery, your doctor will recommend other treatment options.
Generally, most people who undergo Lasik report improved vision. The results may not always be 100% perfect, but Lasik can correct most refractive errors with precise, accurate results. The actual surgery is painless and quick (it takes about 10 minutes).
Even though Lasik is generally effective, patients need to have realistic expectations because there are no guarantees. In addition, slight complications may arise, though they are rare. Before undergoing surgery, be aware that you may still need to wear low prescription glasses or contacts after surgery. Some patients, especially those with far sightedness may experience regression several years after Lasik surgery. Therefore, the results may not be permanent and you may need additional surgery later on. One of the common post-surgery effects of Lasik is dry eyes. In some cases, the condition worsens and causes redness and burning sensation in the eyes. However, medication can help to treat the symptoms.
Choosing lasik surgery is an important decision that requires you to be prepared and well-informed. Talk to your doctor for any clarifications that you may need and read as much as possible about the procedure before making your decision.
If you want to have lasik surgery in Honolulu, visit Lasik Eye Surgery Honolulu.
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