LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK, short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a corrective eye surgery that makes permanent changes to the shape of the cornea (the front clear covering of your eye). These changes are made using an automated microkeratome blade or excimer laser. These methods utilize a blade or ultraviolet pulse to shave very small pieces of tissue from the eye. After a circular flap is cut in the cornea, the surgeon folds back the flap, exposing the stroma (the mid-layer of the cornea). Ultraviolet light beams from the laser device then remove tissue from the stroma. The flap is then folded back over, covering the area where the tissue was removed. This entire LASIK treatment takes less than a minute. Improved ability to focus light into the eye and the retina make for clearer vision immediately. Vision may improve even more so in the weeks following.

Before undergoing a LASIK procedure it must be determined whether LASIK is right for you. This is a very important step that involves an evaluation. A thorough eye examination is conducted to determine suitability. A corneal topographer machine is used to scan the eye. Testing for disqualifying conditions, such as glaucoma is done at this time.

In addition to testing, it's equally important to get all the information you can. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your LASIK doctor will be happy to give you details on what you can expect from the procedure. This can provide a great deal of peace of mind, so you don't go into surgery with unnecessary phobias. If you're fearful of potential pain, there should be no worries, as the anesthetic drops utilized are very effective for preventing discomfort.

Post-operative care is very important to the success of any LASIK procedure. Follow-ups are often conducted shortly after the procedure. Typically you'll need to come in the day after surgery, one week to one month after surgery, and then about 3 months proceeding the procedure for a final exam. These exams are helpful, but complete success will be your personal responsibility. Part of avoiding side effects is determined by your consistent treatment. This isn't complicated; it just involves consistency in tasks like lubricating your eyes. Any good LASIK doctor will remind you of these appropriate procedures post-operatively.

The most common side effect experienced by LASIK patients is dry eyes following the procedure. "Sands of the Sahara," as it's called can be treated by applying the eye drops provided by your LASIK doctor. Some patients may see starbursts or halos around lights at night. These side effects typically improve with time.

Serious side effects are extremely rare when it comes to LASIK eye surgery and can be minimized with the correct treatment. LASIK has the highest success rate in treating low-to-moderate nearsightedness and astigmatism. When treating moderate-to-high nearsightedness its success rate is less predictable. Working with an experienced LASIK physician can greatly reduce risks and the chance of any lasting LASIK side effects.

As great as LASIK eye surgery is, it's not appropriate for everyone. Seeking counsel from a reputable LASIK doctor will help you determine the appropriateness of the procedure. If the following pertains to you, LASIK is not/may not be right for you:

You're too young - you must be at least 18 years old to have LASIK eye surgery. It's important that you and your eyes are finished growing before having the procedure.

You have thin corneas - thin corneas present problems for refractive eye surgery and may result in blinding complications.

You have large pupils - Large pupils can increase the likelihood of seeing starbursts or halos around lights at night. These effects can be lasting or even permanent.

You have blepharitis - Inflamed eyelids combined with surgery can be cause for infection.

Cost - Quality LASIK surgery is not cheap, despite what you may see represented by commercials. Most health insurance companies are yet to include it in coverage.

Dry Eyes - LASIK eye surgery has a tendency to aggravate this condition.

You've had previous refractive surgery - If you have had refractive surgery such as RK, PRK, or LASIK, further eye surgery may pose a problem.

Your lifestyle or job - If you're involved in contact sports, such as boxing it's not typically advised. Also, make sure to check with your job. Some careers, like military ones may prohibit these procedures.

You have refractive instability - This may result from these common issues, but not limited to the following:

• Diabetes
• Pregnancy or breast feeding
• Changed contact lens or glasses prescription in the past year
• Medication that effects vision
• Autoimmune disease that may effect healing

Due to technological advancements, your unique situation, and the like, some of the above may or may not be treatable. That's why it's absolutely paramount that you seek the trusted guidance that your ophthmalogist can provide.