Have you ever imagined waking up in the morning with clear vision, without reaching for your glasses or contacts? That is the promise of LASIK surgery, a popular vision correction procedure.
In this article, we will take a step-by-step look at the LASIK process, from what it is to how it is done.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a surgical procedure designed to correct common vision problems like:
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
Since its introduction, LASIK has undergone significant advancements, making it a preferred choice for vision correction.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before undergoing LASIK, a thorough consultation with an eye care professional is essential. This includes a series of eye exams to assess corneal thickness, pupil size, and refractive errors. The results of the evaluation will determine if the patient qualifies for the procedure.
The Day Before Surgery
Preparation for LASIK involves refraining from wearing contact lenses and avoiding any eye makeup or creams. Patients are also advised to arrange transportation for the day of the surgery, as they will not be able to drive home on their own.
Step-by-Step LASIK Procedure
LASIK surgery is a precise and sophisticated process that involves several key steps.
Understanding these steps can help shed light on the procedure and prepare you for what to expect:
1. Anesthetic Eye Drops
The first step in the LASIK procedure is the application of anesthetic eye drops to numb the eye area. This ensures that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
2. Corneal Flap Creation
Once the eye is numbed, the surgeon uses a specialized instrument, either a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser, to make a thin and hinged flap on the surface of the cornea.
This flap is gently lifted and folded back to expose the corneal tissue lying underneath.
3. Laser Reshaping of the Cornea
With the corneal tissue exposed, the surgeon utilizes a highly precise excimer laser to reshape the cornea.
This step is customized based on pre-surgery measurements and calculations, and it corrects refractive errors by altering the way light rays enter the eye.
The laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to reshape the curvature of the cornea.
4. Flap Repositioning
After the reshaping process, the surgeon meticulously repositions the corneal flap back into its original place.
This flap acts as a natural bandage and starts to heal immediately without needing any stitches.
5. Post-Procedure Immediate Care
Once the surgery is completed, which typically takes only a few minutes per eye, you will rest briefly in the clinic.
Your vision may be blurry or hazy right after the procedure, which is normal. It is essential to have someone drive you home after surgery, as your vision may not have fully stabilized.
Follow-up Appointments
After the procedure, you will have scheduled follow-up appointments with your eye doctor. These appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes following the surgery, including using prescribed eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation.
Risks and Complications
While the LASIK procedure is widely successful, like any surgery, it does come with potential risks and complications.
Patients need to be aware of these, even though they occur infrequently:
- Dry Eyes: One of the most common side effects post-LASIK is dry eyes. This condition is usually temporary and can be managed with eye drops or other treatments recommended by your doctor.
- Undercorrection or Overcorrection: Sometimes, the laser may remove too little or too much tissue from the eye, leading to less-than-optimal vision correction. This might require additional surgery or the use of glasses or contact lenses.
- Vision Disturbances: Some patients may experience glare, halos around bright lights, or double vision. These symptoms typically diminish within weeks or months post-surgery.
- Flap Complications: Issues with the corneal flap, such as irregular healing or infection, though rare, can lead to visual impairment.
- Regression: In a small number of cases, vision improvements may gradually diminish with time, a phenomenon known as regression.
To minimize these risks, choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon is important. Additionally, following all pre- and post-operative care instructions is vital for a successful outcome.
Successful LASIK Procedure in Coral Gables, FL
LASIK surgery is a gateway to improved vision and a glasses-free lifestyle for many. The process from initial consultation to post-surgery care is comprehensive, ensuring patient safety and satisfaction. While the decision to get LASIK should be made with careful consideration and expert advice, understanding the step-by-step procedure sheds light on the journey. Choosing the right surgeon and following their guidelines are also crucial for the best possible outcome.
You can rely on The Laser Center of Coral Gables if you need the best LASIK near you. Call our helpful staff today at (305) 461-0003 if you have questions about how we can help you or to schedule a visit with the top LASIK doctors near you.
We look forward to serving you!
