LASIK has existed for more than two decades, and remains a great option for people who want to get rid of their glasses and contact lenses. However, it does have its pros and cons, as we will see.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a refractive eye surgery, using laser, i.e. laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK). which helps to achieve 20/25 vision or even better; this means that people undergoing this procedure can see from 20 feet away, exactly how someone with a normal vision would be able to see. Through the years, LASIK has seen great improvements in techniques and results, and are performed by most eye Specialists in Islamabad.
LASIK treats far-sightedness, near-sightedness and problems of astigmatisms. However, age related eye problems can still occur—including presbyopia, which necessitates reading glasses after age 40 onwards.
How does LASIK work?
In this outpatient procedure, a laser device is used to reshape the cornea. The procedure involves numbing of the eye using an anesthetic, and thereafter firming the eye with a suction ring and fixing the light for the procedure. The eye is held open during this time with a speculum, however, there is minimal discomfort due to the anesthetic.
During the procedure, a small flap of cornea is created using a laser, and then its folded back. Following this, the surgeon uses an excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue to correct the vision.
Who can undergo LASIK?
LASIK is only a good option for people who have adequate thickness of cornea in the eye. Since a flap needs to be created in the eye, this can only be done if the cornea is thick enough. For people with irregular or thin corneas—keratoconus, this procedure is not the answer.
The ideal age of the candidate should be above 21 years; for people below 25 years, a prior check-up proving stabilized eye vision is needed just the procedure. Additionally, people who suffer from diabetes, autoimmune disorders like SLE, RA, and thyroid disorders cannot undergo it. The procedure is also not safe for pregnant or lactating women.
The procedure is contraindicated in conditions of acute inflammatory disorders like uveitis, keratitis, herpes infection, eye injuries, lid disorders, or chronic dry eyes.
For people who frequently play contact sports and receive blows to the orbital area—like boxing and martial arts—LASIK might not be a good choice, as the chances of eye and corneal injury are higher.
What are the complications of LASIK?
LASIK is an extremely safe procedure overall. In fact, over the years it has become very effective and successful. However, surgery related complications—like infection and inflammation, can still occur, as can corneal flap problems. With the switch to all-laser form of LASIK, the risk of latter has been greatly reduced. Flap complications included irregular astigmatism, microscopic wrinkles called striae, dry eye syndrome and epithelial ingrowth. The chances of these complications can be greatly reduced if one is careful during the post-operative period, follows the advice of their doctor, and most importantly goes to an experienced eye Specialist in Lahore.
