Lasik Eye Surgery - Risks, Advice & Directions
Laser in situ keratomileusis, abbreviated as LASIK, is an ophthalmic treatment for reshaping the cornea. LASIK Eye Surgery is performed for correcting someone’s vision by correcting vision refractive errors like astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia).
LASIK Technology Advances
LASIK, accredited to Ioannis Pallikaris, has been the most general and effective laser based vision rectification practice since 1991. Its high success rate in millions of people has it trendy among those who are dependent on visual aid such as glasses. Advances in LASIK technology are producing better results. New technology involves custom LASIK based on Wave front technology, IntraLase laser based blade-free LASIK technology, and advanced imaging and laser vision correction technology.
LASIK Surgery Procedure
LASIK is an outpatient three step surgical procedure that involves creating a flap of corneal tissue, remodeling the cornea with laser (in situ) and finally repositioning the flap (keratomileusis). Patients remain conscious during surgery, although sometimes meek tranquilizer or anesthetic chemical is administered. For safety measures, medical apparatus used during surgery is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved.
Before Surgery
Patients are given the following guidelines before LASIK surgery:
Stop using rigid contacts three weeks before surgery.
Stop using soft contacts two weeks before surgery.
Additionally, patients should take extra care of their health during the weeks prior to the LASIK eye surgery by avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol , and performing dangerous activities.
After Surgery
After the LASIK surgery, patients need to:
-Have follow-up exams for apt cure
-Take extra sleep with protective eye shields
-Follow anti-inflammatory eye drops as well as antibiotic course
-Put on protective spectacles to prevent rubbing and dry eyes
-Use preservative-free tears for keeping eyes moisturized
LASIK Surgery Results
Outcome of many individual studies proposes the following:
-55.3 percent of LASIK patients accomplish 20/20 vision
-92.6 percent of LASIK patients accomplish 20/40, or improved vision with freedom from corrective eyewear
-95.4 percent worldwide satisfaction rate, according to meta-analysis by American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
LASIK Risks and Potential Complications
Only one percent of LASIK surgeries have been reported by the Eye Surgery Education Council (ESEC) to provoke vision-threatening impediments. Generally, about 1 to 5 percent of patients face mild complications. The most frequent risks reported after LASIK operation are dry eyes, double vision, light sensitivity, soreness or pain, pink or red patches on the eye’s white portion, haloed or glared vision, irregular astigmatism, loss of visual clarity and others. Severe complications followed by LASIK include: cornea flap ailments, eye infections, and chronic dry eyes.
The Cost of LASIK Surgery
Cost of LASIK varies with geographical areas and is based on the degree of refractive error in the patient, the choice of surgeon, the quality of equipment, and on the quality of patient care. On average, the cost of LASIK varies widely ranging from $1500 to $2500 per eye. Read the cost of LASIK surgery article for more information.
LASIK Surgery Considerations
Rudiments for LASIK candidates are:
-Age at least 18 years old or over
-No prior eye surgeries in the last year
-No eye infection or injury
-Good health
Choosing a LASIK Surgeon
An eye surgeon or ophthalmologist, after conducting a comprehensive eye exam and reviewing your medical history, can conclude whether or not LASIK surgery is fit for you. If you are an approved candidate for LASIK, you should thoroughly research your chosen doctor to make sure that you select the best qualified, skilled and trustworthy LASIK surgeon for you.
Example of LASIK Surgery
The following two videos might be of interest to illustrate the LASIK procedure better than words can.
No Comments Add a Comment