Another name for LASIK is Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, a popular refractive surgery used to correct vision. It includes using a laser to reshape the cornea to enhance how the eye focuses light onto the retina. Consulting a trusted Portland LASIK provider can offer valuable insights and professional guidance for individuals considering this option.
With LASIK, the need for glasses or contact lenses can be significantly reduced or eliminated, allowing individuals to enjoy improved vision and greater freedom from corrective eyewear. The procedure has gained widespread popularity due to its high success rate and the life-changing impact it can have on patients’ daily lives.
How Does LASIK Work?
The LASIK procedure is a surgical technique that shapes the cornea using laser technology, the transparent front part of the eye. A thin flap is created using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser and then lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
The surgeon makes corrections utilizing an excimer laser, refractive errors, and microscopic tissue ablates in a precise pattern. After that, the flap is returned to the cornea, allowing it to adhere naturally without stitches. The procedure takes 15 minutes for both eyes; most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Benefits and Risks of LASIK
LASIK is a popular procedure for vision correction due to its rapid recovery time, reduced reliance on glasses or contact lenses, and high success rate. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. However, LASIK has potential risks and side effects, such as dry eyes, glare, halos, and night vision difficulties.
In rare cases, complications like under-correction, over-correction, or infection may occur. It is critical to balance these advantages and hazards and consult with an ophthalmologist before undergoing LASIK.
Is LASIK Right for You?
LASIK is a procedure that involves a thorough eye examination to determine if it is suitable for you. It requires factors such as eye health, age, and lifestyle. Typically, candidates should be over 18, have stable vision for at least a year, and be free from certain eye conditions.
However, those with systemic health issues like autoimmune diseases or uncontrolled diabetes may not be suitable candidates. An extensive examination of the eyes performed by a licensed ophthalmologist helps determine if LASIK is a secure and practical choice for eyesight repair.
Preparing for LASIK
LASIK surgery requires careful preparation, including following pre-operative instructions from your eye surgeon. It’s crucial to discontinue contact lenses for a predetermined amount before the procedure since they may change the cornea’s shape.
The duration depends on the type of lenses used, with soft lenses requiring a one to two-week break and rigid gas-permeable lenses requiring several weeks. Transportation arrangements should be made on the day of the surgery, and a support person is recommended for reassurance.
Understanding the surgery process and what to expect can alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience. Doctors will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific needs.
The LASIK Procedure
LASIK surgery involves a series of eye exams to confirm eye health and suitability, including corneal thickness measurements, corneal surface mapping, and refractive error assessment. The procedure takes 15 minutes for both eyes, with numbing eye drops for comfort.
The surgical team provides real-time feedback and instructions, and a lid speculum keeps eyelids open during the surgery. During reshaping, patients focus on a target light to maintain eye steadiness. The excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue based on the measurements taken before the surgery.
The flap created at the beginning of the procedure is repositioned back onto the cornea, avoiding stitches. For more in-depth details on how LASIK is performed, check out the American Academy of Ophthalmology resource.
