Laser in-situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, is a popular surgical
approach used to correct vision in people who are nearsighted,
farsighted, or have astigmatism.
All laser vision correction surgeries work by reshaping the
cornea, or clear front part of the eye, so that light traveling
through it is properly focused onto the retina located in the back
of the eye. There are a number of different surgical techniques
used to reshape the cornea.
What Are the Advantages of LASIK?
LASIK has many
benefits including:
- It works! It corrects vision. Around 80% of patients will be at
their desired endpoint after LASIK. An enhancement can further
increase this number.
- LASIK laser eye surgery is associated with very little
pain.
- Vision is corrected nearly immediately or by the next day after
LASIK laser eye surgery.
- Recovery is quick and usually no bandages or stitches are
required after LASIK laser eye surgery.
- Adjustments can be made years after LASIK laser eye surgery to
further correct vision.
- After having LASIK laser eye surgery, most patients no longer
need corrective eyewear.
What Are the Disadvantages of LASIK?
- Changes made to the cornea cannot be reversed after LASIK laser
eye surgery.
- Corrections can only be made by additional LASIK laser eye
surgeries.
- LASIK laser eye surgery is expensive, typically costing $2,200
to $2,250 per eye.
- LASIK laser eye surgery is technically complex. Problems may
occur when the doctor cuts the flap, which can permanently affect
vision.
- LASIK laser eye surgery can cause a loss of "best" vision with
or without glasses at 1 year after surgery. Your best vision, is
the highest degree of vision that you achieved while wearing your
contacts or eyeglasses.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of LASIK?
Some
patients experience discomfort in the first 24-48 hours after
surgery. Other side effects, although rare, may include:
- Glare
- Seeing halos around images
- Difficulty driving at night
- Fluctuating vision
- Dry eyes
The FDA has found there to be no long term side effects with
this surgery.
How Should I Prepare for Surgery?
Before your LASIK laser eye surgery you will meet with a
coordinator who will discuss with you what you should expect during
and after the surgery. During this session your medical history
will be evaluated and your eyes will be tested. Likely tests will
include measuring corneal thickness, refraction, and pupil
dilation. Once you have gone through your evaluation, you will meet
the surgeon, who will answer any further questions you may have.
Afterwards, you can schedule an appointment for the procedure.