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LASIK, Seeing Your World In High Definition
What is a LASIK Eye Procedure?
LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a form of corrective eye procedure that uses non-thermal light to make minor adjustments to the shape of the cornea to correct farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism. It is similar to PRK, (photorefractive keratectomy), which also reshapes the cornea using a laser, except LASIK allows for a much faster recovery time. LASIK is an ideal alternative for people with vision issues who are tired of hassling with glasses and contact lenses.
Who is Eligible for LASIK?
To find out if you’re eligible for a LASIK procedure, you will need to speak with one of our laser eye doctors. Only they can accurately determine if LASIK is right for you and answer any questions you may have. However, in most cases, you are eligible if:
You are at least 21 years old
You have not been diagnosed with an autoimmune or degenerative disease
Your vision has not changed in the past year
You don't have any other eye diseases
Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK
The decision to have laser vision correction depends on the results of a thorough consultation. Some basic requirements include a stable eyeglass prescription for one year, healthy cornea and thick enough corneas, no active eye disease and at least 21 years of age.
One of the most important aspects in the decision-making process is to make sure the surgeon who performs your LASIK procedure is experienced. Ask specific questions that assure you your surgeon is skilled and has the expertise required to take care of your needs.
Yes! LASIK treatment corrects myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism (irregular curvature of the cornea).
Technology continues to advance, and many patients who were not a candidate a few years ago may be a candidate today. There are also other vision- correction technologies available now, like lens implants.
Traditional LASIK provides treatment similar to that which glasses or contacts would provide for a patient. Custom LASIK takes into account every patient’s individual visual needs and can treat higher-order visual aberrations that cause problems such as starbursts, halos and decreased contrast sensitivity.
There is also a lower risk of complications with Custom LASIK, and the Wavefront mapping technology used in the procedure gives the surgeon an incredibly accurate and precise means of locating and correcting problems with the eye. Also, studies have shown that the possibility of achieving 20/20 vision is higher with Custom LASIK.
No. The actual treatment itself is painless. Anesthetic drops are given to numb the eye. A patient may feel pressure during the procedure and afterward, they may feel as if there is an eyelash in their eye. Any post-treatment discomfort can easily be treated with Tylenol or Advil.
The entire procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes; it depends on the prescription and the amount of correction needed.
Yes. Even though your vision has been corrected and you no longer need a prescription, it is still essential to take care of your eyes by having a routine exam every year.
Studies have shown that LASIK is safer than regular contact lens use. It has been FDA approved since 1995. There have been more than 12 million procedures performed in the United States since its approval, making it the safest and most common elective procedure to date.
The Day of the Procedure
Once you have scheduled your procedure, you should plan to be at our laser center for about 90 minutes or longer. This will allow you time to ask any questions you may have, finish any paperwork or complete additional testing. Prior to the procedure, an anesthetic eye drop is used to numb the eye and an eyelid holder is placed between your eyelids to keep you from blinking during the procedure.
The procedure is virtually painless and takes less than 15 minutes. Your doctor will operate a computer-directed laser to reshape your cornea. The reshaping of your cornea usually takes five seconds to a minute, depending on the prescription. After this portion of the procedure, your doctor will replace the flap. Corneal tissue has extraordinary natural bonding qualities, so no stitches will be needed. Healing begins almost immediately.
Post-Operative Care
Our technicians will advise you of post operative care. Please make sure that you have a driver to take you to and from our laser center the day of your procedure. After the procedure, you may experience slight discomfort or a feeling similar to having an eyelash or dry contact lens in your eye. This sensation generally disappears after the first day. You should notice improved vision immediately and it will continue to improve in the days and weeks following your procedure. Once you return home from your procedure, it is best to rest for a few hours. Be sure not to rub or touch your eyes.
The day after your procedure, you will return to the laser center for a quick checkup by the doctor. Please plan to have a driver for this appointment also. You may resume reading, computer work or watching TV but make sure to keep your eyes well lubricated and rest them often. Most patients typically can return to work a day or so after their procedure.