LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed eye surgery that has revolutionized the way people correct vision problems. It’s a procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of the LASIK procedure, the conditions it treats, and its various types.

Several variations of LASIK have been developed to suit different patient needs:

1. Custom LASIK:This advanced procedure uses wavefront technology to create a custom treatment plan tailored to the unique imperfections of your eyes.
2. Bladeless LASIK:Also known as All-Laser LASIK, this variation uses a femtosecond laser for both flap creation and corneal reshaping, reducing the risk of complications.
3. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is an alternative to LASIK, suitable for patients with thin corneas. It involves removing the cornea’s outer layer before reshaping it with the excimer laser.

LASIK is primarily used to correct the following vision problems:

1. Myopia (Nearsightedness): People with myopia can see nearby objects clearly but struggle with distant vision. LASIK reshapes the cornea to flatten it, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.
2. Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Hyperopic individuals can see distant objects clearly but have difficulty focusing on close-up objects. LASIK steepens the cornea to improve the focus of light.

Astigmatism: Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing distorted vision at all distances. LASIK smoothens and reshapes the cornea to correct this.

LASIK is an outpatient procedure, and it typically takes less than 30 minutes for both eyes. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Anesthetic Drops: The eye surgeon starts by administering anesthetic eye drops to numb the eye, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the surgery.
2. Flap Creation: A thin flap is created on the cornea’s surface using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. This flap is gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
3. Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to remove precise amounts of corneal tissue to reshape it according to your prescription. The laser operates with exceptional precision and accuracy.
4. Flap Re-positioning: Once the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned. It naturally adheres without the need for stitches.
5. Recovery:The surgeon will place a protective shield over your eye, and you’ll be given post-operative instructions. Rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.

LASIK eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions by providing a safe and effective way to correct vision problems. Whether you’re nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, LASIK offers a potential solution. With various types of LASIK procedures available, consult with an eye specialist to determine the best option for your specific needs. Remember that LASIK is not suitable for everyone, so a thorough evaluation of your eye health is essential before undergoing the procedure.