It is important for patients to be aware of important Lasik eye surgery information, such as the complications and benefits associated with the procedure.
As with any surgery, there are risks when undergoing Lasik eye surgery. There is a possibility that you could be under-treated or over-treated, requiring additional treatment or the need for glasses or contacts after surgery. In addition, side effects of Lasik can include dry eye, glare, or halos with night vision, and in rare cases, permanent vision loss.
However, in the majority of cases, Lasik eye surgery produces excellent results in patients. Many individuals who undergo the Lasik procedure experience 20/20 vision or better and eliminate their need for contact lenses or glasses. This freedom allows patients to swim, play sports, enjoy a day at the beach, and participate in a range of other activities, with no restrictions. The procedure is considered both safe and effective, with more than a million people undergoing Lasik eye surgery each year. Get more information about the risks and benefits of Lasik.
Lasik surgery is an outpatient procedure performed by an ophthalmologist to reshape the cornea. The procedure begins with the surgeon creating a hinged flap on the outer portion of eye, exposing the underlying cornea. Traditionally, the corneal flap is cut with a microkeratome, an oscillating blade guided by the surgeon. This portion of Lasik can discourage some patients from undergoing the vision correction treatment. However, recent developments in Lasik surgery offer a safer method of creating the flap. The introduction of the Intralase? laser allows the Lasik surgeon to use a computer-guided beam of light to create the flap. Many patients who feel apprehensive about undergoing surgery prefer the bladeless method of Lasik.
After the flap is created, the cornea is sculpted with a laser to improve the eye?s focusing ability. Once the precise amount of corneal tissue has been removed, the flap is replaced. No stitches are required as the flap will heal naturally.
Lasik eye surgery generally takes less than 15 minutes to perform, and patients experience improved vision immediately. However, it can take up to six months for optimal visual acuity to stabilize.
This Lasik information is intended to provide a brief overview of the procedure. Contact a qualified ophthalmologist for more Lasik eye surgery information specific to your case, or to learn about other laser vision correction treatments that may be right for you. Since Lasik is surgery, it is important that you choose your Lasik surgeon with care. Extensive research and visits to several Lasik surgeons are recommended.
