Why Choose Lasik?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) eye surgery is a well-known procedure in the US. The eye surgery is a method of refractive surgery that changes the shape of the cornea allowing patients to lessen the time they have to wear those pesky glasses and provide more visual freedom. When it comes to having poor eyesight, According to The Specialty Eye Institute, poor eyesight can be caused by:
- Too-long or too-short eyeballs
- Irregularly shaped corneas
However, altering eyeball size does not do the trick. Instead, changing cornea shape is the most effective (not to mention, innovative) route to eyesight correction today.
This post will assist in determining whether or not you are a viable candidate for LASIK by outlining all you need to know before you go under the knife (or, better yet, the laser).
Overview:
LASIK uses precise lasers to “slice” the cornea without damaging surrounding tissue. Technology in eye care has led to a special cutting laser that uses strict parameters to change cornea (located at the front of they eye) tissue shape.
For reference, an article from ARSC (American Refractive Surgery Council), states FDA approval established 20+ years ago has led to over 19 million operations in the United States alone. These operations have treated issues such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and more.
LASIK eye surgery is performed as follows:
- A micro-thin, circular flap is made in the cornea then is very gently lifted to find the problem area for treatment. This typically takes only a few seconds.
- A laser is used to rid the eye of tiny problematic pieces of tissue. The flap is returned to its normal location and ultimately defends the cornea so it can rest/heal.
Simplicity of the Procedure:
LASIK is notorious for being “relatively painless” (ARSC) through the use of drops that temporarily numb the eye and sedatives to keep you calm. At most, mild discomfort occurs and lasts only 5 hours at most.
Safety Parameters:
The ARSC also states “…less than one percent of patients experience complications post-surgery.” Clinical studies on efficacy show positive results and allow for continued improvement ophthalmology. The highest success rates (95% and above) occur in patients with myopia.
In addition, over 96% of patients are highly satisfied with LASIK surgery. Many claim to see clearer directly following the procedure (sometimes even better than with glasses).
Requirements
Not just anyone can have eye surgery. Roughly one-fifth of patients are deemed ineligible during initial consultations with surgeons. Disqualification is typically due to irregular corneas, eye and autoimmune diseases, severely dry eyes, medications and more.
To be considered for LASIK, you must:
- Be 18+ years of age
- Have healthy eyes (no glaucoma, cataracts, corneal disease, etc.)
- Be sure you are not pregnant/nursing
- Have stable vision for at least 1 year prior to your procedure date
A refractive surgeon who performs LASIK must be board certified in ophthalmology and completed additional hours of surgical training.
As you look for appropriate eye care, “…look for an experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist” (WebMD). Ask questions regarding your surgeon’s experience. Will your surgeon take care of you pre and post surgery? Will you be redirected to a non-physician? Will the ophthalmologist provide post-surgical medication (i.e., eye drops)?
Lastly, never be afraid to ask about alternatives – LASEK, PRK, INTACS and more. Is LASIK the best way to treat your situation?
