Lasik eye surgery is the most common type of surgery used to treat astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia), and farsightedness (hyperopia). It is a type of refractive laser surgery that involves reshaping the cornea in order to allow the light that enters to focus on the retina without the need for contacts or eyeglasses.
In order to be eligible for Lasik, however, you must be over the age of 18 and not be nursing or pregnant. Your vision prescription should also be stable, and you must avoid taking certain medications before and after the procedure.
Certain diseases may disqualify you, such as lupus and diabetes, and your corneas must be even and not be too thin either. Having chronically dry eyes, glaucoma, and certain other under-eye conditions may also null your eligibility.
In regards to fees, it will cost roughly $2,000 per eye. A patient care, success rates, state-of-the-art technology, and surgeon acumen are all factors to consider before you make an appointment. Here, our focus will be on the role of Lasik eye surgery in vision correction.
An Insight Into Lasik Eye Surgery Procedure
Before the actual procedure, your surgeon will perform a full examination of your eyes in order to better gauge your eye health. The eye exam will determine if you are eligible for the procedure.
A corneal topographer will be utilized by your doctor in order to make a detailed map of your corneal shape. You will also be advised to stop wearing your contacts (if applicable) for at least two weeks before the procedure.
The shape of your corneas may be adversely impacted by wearing your contact lenses, which is why your doctor will tell you to cease wearing them before the operation. After the exam has been completed, your doctor will diagnose your eye condition.
They will then inform you of the success rate of Lasik in treating said condition, as well as what you can expect after the procedure, which includes long-term results. If both parties are satisfied, then the operation will be scheduled at a later date.
Once you have arrived at the clinic, you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax. Numbing drops will also be administered so that you will not feel any discomfort or pain during the procedure.
Your eyelids will be kept wide open via an instrument known as a lid speculum. In order to prevent eye movements, the surgeon will also place a suction ring in front of your eye. The surgeon will then gently create a corneal flap in your eye.
Next, they will adjust the top-of-the-line excimer laser, based on your current prescription, using a powerful computer. Then, the surgeon will ask that you focus on a light source for a brief period while they look at your eyes via a microscope.
The excimer laser will send light pulses directly to your cornea during this process in order to gently reshape it. The laser component of the procedure will usually only take 60 seconds.
Once the procedure is complete, you will need to shift focus towards post-surgery recovery. You will be asked to remain at the clinic for a few minutes in order to rest. After a quick post-operative examination, you will be allowed to leave with another person.
You will be told to rest at home. Your surgeon may also ask that you return to their clinic the next day. Your vision will be tested in order to determine if you can legally drive without the need for contact lenses or glasses.
You must take the medication that they prescribed as intended. You will also need to avoid rubbing your eyes and stop engaging in any dangerous or vigorous activities for a few days. Most patients will be able to return to work a few days after the procedure.
Benefits of Lasik Eye Surgery
Lasik surgery will immediately rectify your vision issue. It will usually serve as a permanent solution to your vision problem. There are also no bandages or stitches to worry about after you have undergone the procedure.
If you do not enjoy wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses on a daily basis, then Lasik surgery may be of great benefit, as most patients will no longer need to use either device in order to see properly.
You will save tens of thousands of dollars over your lifetime after having undergone Lasik eye surgery. Vision adjustments can be made after a few years if necessary, and many patients may also experience a boost in their self-confidence after getting rid of their eyeglasses.
The benefits of Lasik eye surgery are myriad, and Lasik serves as a quick, easy, painless, safe, effective, and convenient way to help achieve optimal vision without having to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Post-Lasik Eye Surgery Care Tips
Screen-time should be kept to a minimum. Avoid watching television, playing video games, or texting on your phone for a few days after the procedure. Direct exposure to bright light should also be avoided while you recover.
If you need to go out, then wear high-quality sunglasses. Cosmetics should be avoided on the eyes as well as under the eyes for the duration of your recovery. Moreover, any activities that involve strain should be avoided.
Get plenty of rest, drink six to eight glasses of water per day, and avoid stressful situations in order to accelerate your recovery.
The Future is Now
Lasik eye surgery can help treat astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia. It is an innovative, safe, economical, and highly effective surgical procedure that is painless and has a very high success rate.
Many patients will no longer need to wear eyeglasses or contacts; some, for the remainder of their lives. If you are interested in learning more about Lasik eye surgery, then please make an appointment with a qualified and reputable eye surgeon in your area.
