Thousands of people every year are tossing away their eye glasses and contact lenses, thanks to breakthroughs in laser eye surgery. LASIK surgery is one of the most sought after procedures, since it can help those suffering nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
The term LASIK actually is short for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. Either name describes a procedure that provides clearer vision by reshaping the patient’s cornea, allowing the light that enters to be properly focused on the retina. Typically, the surgery takes only about 15 minutes in the doctor’s office, with noticeable vision improvement appearing in as little as 24 hours.
In performing LASIK surgery, an ophthalmologist or other skilled eye surgeon, will use drops to numb the eye and surrounding area. A device is applied to hold the eyelids apart in order to present a clear operating area. This process rarely causes pain or discomfort in the patient.
Using a laser or a scalpel blade, the surgeon will cut and lift a flap to expose the cornea. The patient will notice that their vision will become blurry and dim at this point, but this is to be expected.
Then comes the step that is most well-known. The surgeon, according to your specific prescription, will use a laser to remove cells to reshape the stroma layer of the cornea. Precision is insured via a computer, which will track eye movement as the patient focuses on a green or red light.
When the trimming and shaping of the cornea is completed, the surgeon will replace the flap and may add more eye drops to aid in healing. The patient is allowed to return home, but they may be advised to nap in order to allow the eyes to rest. There often is some watering of the eye and irritation, but that should only last for a few hours.
Following LASIK surgery, most patients will regain 20/20 vision, though results will vary.
Contact Dr. Goosey today to schedule an appointment.
