LASIK EYE SURGERY
WHAT IS LASIK?
The cornea is responsible for focusing light and directing it towards the back of your eye. The focused light hits the retina, which creates the images you see. If your cornea isn’t perfectly round, these images may be blurry or distorted.
When the light in your eye isn’t properly focused, it’s called a refractive error. There are three common types of refractive errors:
- Myopia, or nearsightedness. Patients with this refractive error have trouble seeing objects that are far away.
- Hyperopia, or farsightedness. Patients with this refractive error have trouble seeing close objects.
- Astigmatism. Patients with this refractive error have blurry vision at any distance.
LASIK surgery can correct these refractive errors. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a specialized instrument, called a microkeratome, to create a thin flap in the outer layer of the cornea.
After opening the flap, the surgeon uses an excimer laser to permanently change the shape of your cornea using concentrated pulses of light. Afterwards, the surgeon replaces the flap and the procedure is complete.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR LASIK EYE SURGERY ?
If you have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, you may be a candidate for LASIK eye surgery. An ophthalmologist can determine if LASIK eye surgery is the best treatment for you.
Ideal candidates have stable vision that hasn’t worsened in the past year. You should have a healthy retina, normal eye pressure, and a sufficiently thick cornea. You’re more likely to experience complications from LASIK eye surgery if you have any of the following conditions:
- Pregnancy or nursing. Your vision can fluctuate during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making the outcome less predictable.
- Immune system disorders. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and HIV can inhibit your ability to heal.
- Chronic dry eyes. LASIK eye surgery may worsen this condition.
- Large pupils. If your pupils are larger than 8.5 millimeters, LASIK surgery could result in vision glare, halos, and decreased night vision.
WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE LASIK EYE SURGERY ?
Your ophthalmologist will evaluate your eyes and review your complete medical history. If you normally wear contact lenses, you should switch to regular eyeglasses approximately 3 weeks before your baseline evaluation.
After reviewing the results, your ophthalmologist will determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. It’s important to understand the risks and benefits before scheduling your procedure.
On the day of your surgery, do not wear any makeup, cosmetics, or lotions. Eat a light meal and take your prescription medications as you normally would.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING LASIK EYE SURGERY ?
LASIK eye surgery can usually be completed in approximately 30 minutes. Your surgeon will place a numbing medication in your eye before starting the procedure. A specialized instrument, called an eyelid speculum, will hold your eye open during the surgery.
You may feel pressure or mild discomfort, but the procedure is relatively painless. At the end of the surgery, the surgeon will place a shield over your eye to keep the flap in place. It’s important to wear the shield to protect your eye as it heals.
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY EYE AFTER LASIK EYE SURGERY ?
You may experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity to light immediately after the surgery. Do no touch or rub your eye, as it could dislodge the flap.
The eye shield can be removed after your first post-operative visit. Your ophthalmologist will examine your eye and test your vision. You may receive special eye drops that can be used to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and lubricate your eye.
Always follow the after-care instructions provided by your doctor. Your vision may fluctuate during the first few weeks. It can take up to 6 months for your vision to completely stabilize. If you have questions about your vision, contact your ophthalmologist for advice.