Many people suffer from a variety of eye conditions and diseases. Some of the most common ones include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The good news is, these three optical conditions can be addressed using different treatments, including LASIK vision corrective eye surgery. If you are interested in learning more about this procedure, this article can tell you what you need to know.
How Does LASIK Vision Corrective Eye Surgery Work?
A known refractive surgery, LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is a procedure that reshapes the cornea, allowing the light that enters the eyes to focus on the retina located directly behind the lens. This treatment addresses refractive errors that cause a person’s vision to become blurry. The following covers the overall experience of a patient undergoing this surgery:
Before the Procedure
The doctor examines the patient’s eyes to see whether they are healthy enough to undergo surgery. Some of the aspects they evaluate include the thickness of the cornea, refractive error, size of the pupil, as well as health issues that the patient may have.
To measure the curvature of the front part of the eye, the doctor uses a tool called a corneal topographer. Some patients also undergo a wavefront analysis to locate specific areas of the aberrations that affect one’s eyesight. Additionally, the doctor reviews the rest of the patient’s medical history.
If the individual is considered a suitable candidate for LASIK, they will be advised to stop wearing contact lenses for around two weeks before the procedure. This is to prevent the temporary alteration of their cornea’s shape. They will also be given a precautionary treatment to prevent dry eyes after the surgery.
- During the Procedure – Medicated eye drops are used on the patient to promote numbness and prevent discomfort. Once the eye is positioned under the laser, the doctor works with a lid speculum to ensure the lids are open during the procedure. Afterward, a surgical pen is used to mark the cornea. Once that is done, a flap is made in the outer corneal tissue by creating an incision. This separates it from the stroma underneath.
Once the flap has been made, a suction ring is placed on the eye to keep it in place. And then, the doctor adjusts an excimer laser to the patient’s specific prescription, and they are instructed to stare at the target light. The surgeon then monitors the eye through a microscope while sending pulses of light to the cornea.
The cornea is reshaped during this process. And although a patient might feel pressure, the procedure itself is relatively painless. The overall surgery usually takes up to five minutes per eye.
- After the Procedure – Once the surgery is done, the doctor instructs the patient to rest for a while. They inspect the person’s eyes shortly after and let them go home assisted by someone because their vision is most likely blurry. This is a normal common post-operation occurrence, and it goes away or improves by the next day.
A day or so after the procedure, the optometrist will check the patient’s eyes again and instruct them to do the necessary aftercare. In the following days, the patient will start noticing changes in their vision. During this recovery period, they are encouraged to avoid any strenuous activities for at least a week, though they can resume tasks that don’t put their eyes at risk.
What Are the Advantages of Getting LASIK Vision Corrective Eye Surgery
Undergoing laser eye surgery is advantageous to patients suffering from refractive errors. Some of the perks of getting laser vision correction include the following:
- Significant Improvement in Vision – According to research, around 95% of people who have undergone LASIK vision corrective eye surgery are satisfied with the results. They are known to have at least 20/40 uncorrected visual acuity. Meanwhile, 85% are reported to have achieved 20/20 vision after the procedure, even without the aid of glasses or contact lenses.
- Long-term Results – The stabilization period after laser eye surgery normally lasts up to three months. Afterward, the patient can expect to enjoy the lifelong effects of the procedure. But, even though the results are permanent, it is important to keep in mind that other factors such as aging, illnesses, or external damage can affect one’s eyesight. Other than that, the positive effects of the LASIK last a lifetime.
- Decreased Dependence on Prescription Glasses and Contact Lenses – Undergoing LASIK means a person no longer has to be reliant on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Some people can even completely stop wearing them. And since LASIK patients don’t have to worry about their glasses slipping or contact lenses falling out, they have an easier time participating in sports and other rigorous activities.
Visit Your Local Optometrist
Before undergoing LASIK vision corrective eye surgery, it is best to determine whether the procedure is best for your condition. And to understand more about your current optical needs, you must consult an eye specialist. Reach out to a trusted optometrist in Lancaster, KY, so you can have confidence that you will receive high-quality eye care services, which can include LASIK eye surgery.
