LASIK Surgery Might Be Right for You
Surgical vision correction has come a long way since its invention in the 1950s and the subsequent switch to lasers in the 1980s. These days, LASIK surgery, or laser eye correction, is a fast, effective, relatively risk-free way to say goodbye to contact lenses or glasses.
Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis is relatively expensive when compared to contact lenses or glasses. Prices vary regionally and from provider to provider, but generally come in at between two and three thousand dollars per eye. With patients reporting high satisfaction, between ninety-two and ninety-eight percent on average, it is definitely worth the minor risk and expense for some.
Candidacy for LASIK
Most folks suffering from nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism should see some benefit form LASIK surgery. Those who are experiencing vision problems stemming from other disorders or diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically not good candidates for LASIK.
Additionally, those suffering from temporary vision problems, or who are pregnant, should wait to consider LASIK until after their temporary symptoms have passed. Consult with an ophthalmologist or OD (Doctor of Optometry) to see if you are a good candidate for LASIK.
The LASIK Procedure
The LASIK procedure is itself relatively simple, though it does require expertise and the right equipment. The eyelids are held back and the eye is immobilized. An ophthalmologist cuts a flap in the patient’s cornea and either lifts it or floats it out of the way, revealing the stromal layer of the cornea.
The ophthalmologist then reshapes the corneal stroma, removing tissue with an excimer laser without damaging the surrounding tissues. Once the reshaping is complete, the corneal flap is put back in place and is held there by natural adhesion.
Aftercare and Risks
Aftercare for LASIK is relatively simple. Patients are given anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops, and told to rest and protect their eyes with sunglasses and goggles, in some cases. Risks associated with LASIK primarily center on following aftercare instructions to insure that complications do not arise from infection or inflammation.
A small percentage of patients report complications or negative outcomes of the surgery, some undergo a second surgery, and some have to continue to wear corrective lenses.
Say Goodbye to Your Glasses or Contacts
Regardless of your reasons for wanting to get the wearing of corrective lenses out of your life, LASIK can be a great alternative. If you are a good candidate for the surgery and have the money to spend on your eyesight, LASIK can free you from contact lenses or eyeglasses for many years to come.
But understand this: although corrective eye surgery has come a long way since the early days of radial keratotomy, there are still some associated risks. However, an overwhelming majority of patients report positive outcomes.
[Photo via: Uams]