What is LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a popular laser eye surgery designed to correct vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea to allow light to focus correctly on the retina, improving vision clarity and reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
How Does LASIK Work?
LASIK surgery is a quick and precise procedure that typically follows these steps:
- Creating a Corneal Flap: A femtosecond laser or a microkeratome blade creates a thin flap on the cornea’s surface.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to correct refractive errors.
Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
To qualify for LASIK surgery, you should:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have stable vision for at least a year.
- Have a prescription within the treatable range (-1.0 to -10.0 for myopia, up to +4.0 for hyperopia, and up to 6.0 diopters for astigmatism).
- Have healthy corneas with adequate thickness.
- Not having severe dry eyes, glaucoma, keratoconus, or other serious eye conditions.
Benefits of LASIK Surgery:
- Fast & Painless: The entire procedure takes around 15 minutes for both eyes, with little to no discomfort.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours.
- Reduced Dependence on Glasses & Contacts: Many people achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK.
- Long-Lasting Results: Once healed, results are usually permanent.
- Improved Lifestyle: Activities like swimming, sports, and traveling become more convenient without glasses or contacts.
Possible Risks & Side Effects:
Though LASIK is a highly successful procedure, some potential risks include:
- Temporary dry eyes (managed with eye drops).
- Glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night.
- Under-correction or over-correction, which may require an enhancement procedure.
- Rare complications such as corneal flap issues or infections.
Post-Surgery Care & Recovery Tips:
To ensure a smooth recovery, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for at least a few weeks.
- Use prescribed eye drops to prevent dryness and infection.
- Wear protective eyewear while sleeping to prevent accidental rubbing.
- Avoid swimming, dusty areas, and strenuous activities for at least a month.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
Why Choose Vijaya Nethralaya for LASIK?
At Vijaya Nethralaya, we offer advanced LASIK technology performed by expert refractive surgeons, ensuring precise and safe vision correction. With state-of-the-art facilities and personalized care, we help patients achieve clearer vision with confidence.
Conclusion:
LASIK eye surgery is a life-changing procedure that offers freedom from glasses and contacts. If you are considering LASIK, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if you are an ideal candidate. Book a consultation at Vijaya Nethralaya today and take the first step toward a clearer vision!
