For people who are suffering from vision problems such as astigmatism, hyperopia (being farsighted), or myopia (being nearsighted), one possible method is by opting for LASIK eye surgery.
The procedure stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis”, and it is non-invasive, quick, and most patients recover quickly with minimal to no problems or lasting side effects.
Here are some of the basic things to know about LASIK eye surgery.
Am I A Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
The first thing that you have to determine is whether you are a good candidate for this type of surgery. Your ophthalmologist will conduct a complete diagnostic exam to see if a LASIK procedure is right for you.
The diagnostic test will examine the physical appearance of your cornea (shape, thickness, and size), as well as the general health of your eyes. This exam will also take into account your medical history.
Unfortunately, there are people for whom LASIK eye surgery is not recommended. People who have weakened immune systems, long-standing medical issues such as diabetes, hypertension, or arthritis, or those who suffer from dry eyes.
People who have abnormally thin corneas or large pupils are also not advised to undergo this procedure. Those who proceed with this surgery, even if they are unsuitable candidates run the risk of experiencing long-term complications.
There are Complications? I Thought This Was a Safe Procedure!
Since the introduction of the LASIK procedure, more than 20 years ago, millions of people have undergone this surgery. Based on the outcome of these results, only 1% of people experience serious and long-term complications.
While this is a relatively small number compared to other surgical procedures, you can still take steps to ensure that your LASIK surgery is as safe as possible.
Aside from getting a thorough diagnostic examination to ensure that you a suitable and healthy candidate for this procedure, you should also make sure that you choose an experienced and skilled eye care provider who has performed the LASIK procedure before.
You can easily find reviews and referrals within the industry to find eye care providers who have high success rates with performing LASIK eye surgery.
Common Side Effects of LASIK Eye Surgery
Here are some of the common side effects and complications that people experience post-surgery:
Dry, tender eyes
One of the issues that arise right after LASIK eye surgery is that your eyes cannot produce tears for a short period of time. This can cause dry, irritated eyes that can feel painful and tender. The dryness of your eyes can also affect your vision.
After your surgery, your doctor will generally recommend that you use eye drops to help keep your eyes moist.
Affected vision
After the surgery, you might notice that your eyes will have difficulty adjusting to conditions with too much or too little light. During the day, you might notice significant glare, and at night, you might notice halos around light sources. You could also experience double vision which can be disconcerting.
If possible, avoid driving at night right after your surgery, and avoid situations that can strain your eyes, such as reading under dim lights or going out during very sunny times.
Incorrect Procedures
While most LASIK procedures go off without any problems, there are times when the procedure is not done correctly. You might suffer from under corrections (too little tissue removed from the cornea) or over corrections (too much tissue removed from the cornea).
With under corrections, you may need to undergo another LASIK procedure in the future to correct the problem.
Flap Problems
Keep in mind that LASIK eye surgery will involve removal of tissue, and sometimes, this procedure can cause some issues as well. When your doctor removes the front flap of your cornea, it can cause tears in the tissue. Secondary infections can arise after the surgery as well.
Flap problems are not common, but they do occur. This is why you need to find an experienced eye doctor; you can keep issues like flap problems at a minimum.
Preparing for Your Surgery
Here are three steps to keep in mind before you undergo LASIK eye surgery:
- Know the costs – in general, LASIK eye surgery will cost around $1500 to $2500 per eye. You can check whether your insurance covers this procedure.
- Have a support system ready – you will have trouble seeing immediately after the surgery. Get someone ready to drive you home as well as stay with you to help you with anything you might need.
- Stay Clean– skip using makeup, face creams, lotions, or any other cosmetic product on your face right before going in for your LASIK surgery. These products can contaminate your eye and complicate the procedure.
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