LASIK Surgery

LASIK Surgery

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical eye procedure done to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contacts. How can you tell if the surgery is right for you and whether it’s worth the risk? According to the FDA, there are some important facts and information to help you make up your mind.

When the cornea (the part of the eye that focuses light on the retina) has an imperfection, the eye’s ability to focus is diminished. The eye views images as blurry or out of focus. LASIK surgery is a laser, used to remove tissue and to reshape the cornea.

You could be a candidate for LASIK eye surgery if you have a refraction error such as far-sightedness, near-sightedness or astigmatism. However, this surgery may not be for you if:

• You have had to change your prescription for glasses or contacts within the past year.
• You participate in contact sports (wrestling, boxing) where blows to the face are common.
• You’re under the age of 18. As of now, LASIK surgery is not approved for minors.

Currently, long term effects of LASIK are unknown and like every surgery, there are risks. The most common side effects include: loss of some vision, double vision, halos, or chronic dry eyes.

If you do decide on surgery, here are some things you should expect:

• If you wear contacts, you must wear glasses for several weeks prior to your surgery.
• Surgery takes less than 30 minutes, and after surgery your eyes may itch or have burning sensations.
• You will need a friend to take you home after your surgery.
• You may need an enhancement done, at a later date, to refine your vision after the initial surgery.

LASIK surgery could help relieve the burden of glasses and/or contact lenses if you know the facts. Keep in mind that you should be comfortable with your doctor. If not, it is your choice to find a different doctor. Interview the specialist about the surgery and talk to previous patients. Finally, don’t let cost be the sole factor of your choice of doctor, because it is your future vision that lies in the hands of the surgeon you choose.

LASIK eye surgery is popular, costly, and will change your vision forever. Use careful consideration when deciding upon the procedure and finding a doctor to perform your surgery.