Did you know that Lasik stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses and that it is a two-step procedure? Lasik is a familiar name in the world of vision correction, having been approved by the FDA almost 20 years ago.
Although Lasik surgery may improve your vision dramatically, not everyone with vision loss is a candidate. Find out if Lasik eye surgery is suitable for you.
What To Expect From Lasik Surgery?
Lasik is performed in a two-step surgery treatment. Let’s look at these two steps:
The First Step of Lasik Eye Surgery
The first step in Lasik is to create a micron-thin circular flap in the cornea. The eye specialist uses a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser to do this in seconds. The surgeon next gently raises the flap to reveal the treatment area immediately under the surface of the eye.
The femtosecond laser is an infra-red laser that flashes at one quadrillionth of a second to disrupt tiny tissue inside the cornea.
The Second Step of Lasik of Lasik Eye Surgery
To correct the patient’s eyesight, a computer-guided excimer laser is utilized in the second step. The flap is then repositioned to serve as a natural bandage and protect the altered cornea from infection.
Since its FDA approval, Lasik has treated astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and many more vision problems.
The excimer laser is a cooled, ultraviolet light with a pulse rate of up to 1000 Hz to correct your eyesight.
Does Lasik Hurt?
Because numbing drops are used before and during the procedure, Lasik surgery is usually painless. Although the eyelid clamp used to restrict blinking may cause some discomfort, the numbing and lubricating drops help patients relax. Some people may have mild discomfort for a couple of hours following the procedure.
Are You Anesthetized For Lasik?
Along with the numbing drops, you get a sedative to help you relax. However, you are awake during surgery. If your eyes move, the capabilities of the laser to track are so accurate, and the laser follows every little eye movement. The laser is automatically turned off if you sneeze or move too quickly.
Is Everyone Eligible For Lasik Eye Surgery?
No. Even more alarmingly, most surgeons estimate that between 15% and 20% of their LASIK evaluations are ineligible for the procedure. In addition, patients with thin or uneven corneas and specific eye disorders such as glaucoma are more likely to be disqualified from LASIK surgery.
Certain autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, that impede the healing process can make laser eye correction treatments less ideal for certain people.
Is Lasik Eye Surgery Expensive?
While the cost may appear high, it is a one-time charge that covers pre-surgical treatment, surgery, and any post-operative exams and care.
The average cost of Lasik in the US is $2,199 per eye, according to WebMD. This charge, of course, may vary based on the surgeon, location, equipment, and eye problems.
LASIK may save you money over time compared to purchasing and maintaining corrective glasses. Speak to your eye specialist to see if there are any Lasik discounts available.
Is Lasik Surgery For Me?
So, do you want to find out if Lasik surgery is for you? A variety of criteria determines LASIK eligibility by eye care specialists. In addition to refractive error, additional variables are examined. Every patient is unique and has unique requirements. The eye specialist will suggest the best treatment choice for you and your eyes.
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