LASIK SURGERY

If you’re near-sighted or far-sighted, you may need glasses in order to see clearly. If you wear contact lenses, there is the daily hassle of putting them in every morning and taking them out every night. Technological advances are making these partial solutions to vision impairment obsolete. Newly developed surgical procedures utilize the precision of lasers, and one of the most successful new eye surgeries is Laser-in-situ or LASIK. Doctors are now able to correct the most common vision problems, from far and near-sightedness to astigmatism, with the LASIK procedure. LASIK now is able to achieve results with less pain and a shorter healing time.

During the consultation, your physician will talk with you about the changes that you want to make in your vision. Your doctor will explain the different options available.

Your physician will also ask you for a medical history, and may also give you specific instructions in preparing for surgery. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to stop wearing them for a specified period of time before your initial consultation or examination. Your doctor will also explain the kind of anesthesia required and the surgical facility used.

Most patients are pleased with the outcome of their surgeries; however, LASIK eye surgery is not guaranteed to restore perfect eyesight. There is a small risk that distortions from the procedure, such as blurred or hazy vision, will be permanent. On rare occasions, results of the surgery are worse than before. Still, many patients with mild to severe myopia achieve at least 20/40 vision, and many are able to see 20/20. Individuals with more severe sight impairment should expect less from the surgery. For them, LASIK is usually able to improve vision, but not necessarily perfect it. Make sure you ask your doctor about the results, risks and cost of procedure including follow-ups.