What is LASIK?
LASIK surgery is the precise and controlled removal of the eyes corneal tissue by a special laser to reshapes the cornea thus changing its focusing power. The goal of LASIK is to improve the cornea's ability to focus incoming light retina.
Is LASIK safe?
The FDA has approved the LASIK procedure and considers it safe and effective. Studies suggest that there is 3%-5% chance of problems with nighttime glare and dryness, and a less then 1% chance of serious complications. There is no known cases of blindness resulting from a LASIK procedure.
Is LASIK painful?
Laser vision correction is almost completely painless. You are awake during the entire procedure; however your eyes are completely anesthetized with drops. Your eyelid is held open with a special instrument called a speculum. While the flap is being created, you may feel some pressure on your eye. The actual laser treatment takes less than one minute.
How long does the surgery take?
The surgery itself takes 10-15 minutes per eye but you will be here for about 90 minutes.
How Quickly Can I Return to Normal Activities?
We recommend that you sleep for about three hours following your procedure. Your eyes may be itchy and watery. This is common immediately following treatment. Most patients are able to return to work within 24 hours of having the procedure. There is a two week period in which we request that you take no rigorous showers, refrain from wearing eye make-up and stay away from dusty, dirty environments.
How soon after surgery will I see well?
Each patient is different. The eye drop medications cause some blurring, but most patients notice a dramatic improvement even as they leave the office. More that 4 out of 5 patients can pass a driving test without glasses or contact lenses after the treatment.
Will I need glasses or contact lenses after the treatment?
The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce your dependence on glasses and/or contact lenses, but LASIK patients still may benefit from reading glasses or distance glasses when they desire perfect near or distance vision. A nominal percentage of patients wear a thin pair of prescription glasses for night driving.
Is the surgery permanent?
Yes, the surgery permanently alters the shape and focus of your cornea. This does not mean that your refractive error will not change, though. If you are going to become more short or long sighted then this may still naturally occur.
What are risk factors associated with LASIK?
Your LASIK doctor should be informed if you suffer from any of the following: herpes of the eye area, glaucoma, ocular hypertension, keratinous, blepharitis, large pupils, thin corneas, previous LASIK-type surgery, or dry eyes.
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