Vision correction surgery, like LASIK, is an opportunity to achieve visual freedom from prescription glasses and contact lenses. The results can make daily life easier as well as improve your self-confidence and sense of independence.
Gathering as much information as possible about LASIK surgery can be beneficial if you’re contemplating this type of procedure. Keep reading to learn more about LASIK, including what happens during the procedure!
What is LASIK?
LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) is an outpatient laser procedure that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure aims to give you better visual freedom and reduce dependence on visual aids.
After LASIK, most people can perform most of their daily tasks without contacts or glasses.
What Happens During the LASIK Procedure?
During the procedure, your LASIK surgeon will use a laser to reshape the cornea at the front of your eye. This improves your eyes’ ability to focus light rays onto the retina at the back of your eye, making your vision clearer.
First, they will use a laser to make a thin flap on the front surface of your cornea. Then, they will fold this flap to the side to get it out of the way.
Next, they will use a different laser to correct the tissue below the flap’s surface. Once your corneal tissue has been corrected, your LASIK surgeon will replace the flap and position it for healing.
The actual LASIK procedure only takes about half an hour for both eyes. You’ll be able to see after LASIK, but your vision will be blurry and take time to clear.
You’ll need someone to drive you home, and it’s recommended that you rest after the procedure and take it easy the rest of the day. Some people return to work the next day, while others take an extra day off.
If your job involves heavy lifting, it’s advised that you take additional time for recovery, as any physical strain can increase the risk of complications.
Is LASIK Safe?
LASIK is one of the most popular elective surgeries in the united states. Over nineteen million people have had LASIK, and it has a high satisfaction rating among patients.
The LASIK procedure itself is usually comfortable and quick. Your eye doctor will give you numbing eye drops before your treatment.
The only thing you may experience is a slight pressure on your eye as the procedure is performed. After the numbing wears off, you may experience mild discomfort and you may have some burning or itching sensations or the feeling of something in your eye.
This is all part of the healing process and should resolve quickly. As LASIK is typically a one-time procedure, the primary risk of infection is during the recovery and healing process.
Healing and recovery are critical. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions after LASIK surgery, and do not skip any scheduled appointments afterward, as they ensure that you are healing properly.
Who is a Good Candidate for LASIK?
The ideal candidate is eighteen or older, in good health, with moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and free of eye conditions, such as keratoconus, eye injuries, or eyelid disorders. It’s not recommended for those with dry eyes, glaucoma, cataracts, inflammation, or infections, such as herpes simplex.
It is also not recommended for those who regularly play contact sports and are routinely hit in the face and eyes, such as in boxing and martial arts. If you are pregnant or nursing, your eye doctor will likely recommend that you wait until after you are done nursing to have LASIK for the best results.
Do you want to learn if you may be a candidate for LASIK? Schedule an appointment at Metro Eye Care in Paramus, NJ, today!
