For people who suffer from vision problems such as astigmatism, hyperopia (nearsightedness), or myopia (farsightedness), one possible method is to opt for LASIK eye surgery.
The procedure stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis”, and is non-invasive, quick, and most patients recover quickly with minimal or no lasting problems or side effects.
Here are some basic things to know LASIK eye surgery.
Is IA a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
The first thing you should determine is whether you are a good candidate for this type of surgery. Your eye doctor will perform a complete diagnostic exam to determine if the LASIK procedure is right for you.
Diagnostic tests will check the physical appearance of your cornea (shape, thickness, and size), as well as the general health of your eyes. This exam will also consider your medical history.
Unfortunately, there are people for whom LASIK eye surgery is not recommended. People who have a weakened immune system, long-term medical problems such as diabetes, hypertension, or arthritis, or those with dry eyes.
People who have abnormally thin corneas or large pupils are also not advised to undergo this procedure. Those who go ahead with this operation, even if they are unsuitable candidates, run the risk of experiencing it long term complications.
Any Complications? I Think This Is A Safe Procedure!
Since the introduction of the LASIK procedure, more than 20 years ago, millions of people have had this operation. Based on the results of these results, only 1% of people experience serious and long-term complications.
While this is a relatively small amount compared to other surgical procedures, you can still take steps to ensure that your LASIK surgery is as safe as possible.
Apart from getting a thorough diagnostic examination to ensure that you are a suitable and healthy candidate for this procedure, you should also ensure that you choose an experienced and skilled eye care provider who has performed LASIK procedures before.
You can easily find reviews and referrals within the industry to find eye care providers who have a high success rate of performing LASIK eye surgery.
Common Side Effects of LASIK Eye Surgery
Here are some common side effects and complications that people experience after surgery:
-
Dry and tender eyes
One of the problems that arise after LASIK eye surgery is that your eye is unable to secrete tears for a short period of time. This can cause dry, irritated eyes that are painful and sore. Dryness of your eyes can also affect your vision.
After your surgery, your doctor will usually recommend that you use eye drops to help keep your eyes moist.
-
Affected vision
After surgery, you may notice that your eyes will have difficulty adjusting to conditions with too much or too little light. During the day, you may see significant glare, and at night, you may see halos around light sources. You can also experience double vision which can be confusing.
If possible, avoid driving at night right after your surgery, and avoid situations that could strain your eyes, such as reading under dim lights or going outside when it’s very sunny.
-
Wrong procedure
Although most LASIK procedures go without problems, there are times when they are not done properly. You may suffer from undercorrection (too little tissue removed from the cornea) or overcorrection (too much tissue removed from the cornea).
With less correction, you may need to have another LASIK procedure in the future to fix the problem.
-
Lap Problem
Keep in mind that LASIK eye surgery will involve removing tissue, and sometimes, this procedure can also cause some problems. When your doctor removes the front covering of your cornea, it can cause a tear in the tissue. Secondary infection can also occur after surgery.
Flap issues aren’t common, but they do happen. This is why you need to find an experienced ophthalmologist; You can minimize problems such as flap problems.
Preparing for Your Operation
Here are three steps to keep in mind before you get LASIK eye surgery:
- Know the cost – in general, LASIK eye surgery will cost around $1500 to $2500 per eye. You can check if your insurance covers this procedure.
- Set up a support system – You will have difficulty seeing immediately after surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you to help you with anything you might need.
- Keep it clean– skip using makeup, face cream, lotion, or other cosmetic products on your face right before performing LASIK surgery. These products can contaminate your eyes and complicate the procedure.
