Posted by: Associates in Ophthalmology (NJ) in LASIK
LASIK is a popular refractive procedure that can allow you to experience greater independence from visual aids. If you’re considering LASIK or are already scheduled for the procedure, you may be wondering what exactly happens to experience the life-changing result of LASIK.
Keep reading to learn what happens during the LASIK procedure!
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a type of refractive surgery that is used to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK, like other types of refractive surgery, aims to reduce a person’s dependence on prescription glasses or contact lenses.
During the LASIK procedure, your LASIK surgeon will use a highly precise excimer laser to reshape the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye. By reshaping the cornea, your LASIK surgeon can correct any irregularities in its curvature, allowing light to focus properly on the retina at the back of the eye.
LASIK is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home shortly after the surgery.
What Can I Expect During the LASIK Procedure?
If you are considering LASIK, you may be wondering what happens during the LASIK process. On the other hand, if you already have the LASIK procedure scheduled, you may want to know more about what happens during the procedure.
Here is an overview of the LASIK process:
Consultation
Before you can schedule the LASIK procedure, you must first ensure that you are a good candidate for it and that it is the best option for you. During a LASIK consultation, your medical history and eye health will be assessed, including a thorough examination of your eyes and vision.
Tests such as corneal mapping, refraction, and tear film evaluation will be conducted. Your LASIK surgeon will discuss the procedure, potential risks, and outcomes with you.
If your eye doctor at Associates in Ophthalmology determines that you are a good candidate for LASIK, you will be able to schedule the procedure.
Procedure
First, your LASIK surgeon will numb the surface of your eye using special anesthetic eye drops. You will be awake during the procedure, but these drops ensure you are comfortable.
The LASIK procedure begins with your LASIK surgeon creating a thin, hinged flap on the cornea. This flap is then lifted, exposing the underlying corneal tissue.
After this, a laser is then used to remove precise amounts of tissue from the cornea based on your refractive error. After reshaping the cornea, your LASIK surgeon will carefully reposition the flap back into its original position, where it adheres without the need for stitches.
The cornea naturally holds the flap in place as it heals. Typically, the LASIK procedure is fairly short, taking only around ten to fifteen minutes per eye.
Recovery
Following your eye doctor’s instructions is extremely important for a smooth and successful recovery from LASIK. During LASIK recovery, you may experience dryness and blurry vision for the first few days.
It is essential to follow the prescribed post-operative instructions, including using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and protecting your eyes from irritants. Most people notice improved vision within a few days or weeks, but it may take several months for your vision to stabilize completely.
Follow-Up
After LASIK, follow-up visits are crucial for monitoring your healing progress. These appointments involve checking your vision, assessing the stability of your refraction, and evaluating the overall health of your eyes.
The frequency of follow-up visits will depend on your LASIK surgeon’s recommendations, but they typically occur within the first few days, weeks, and months after the surgery.
These visits allow your eye care professional to address any concerns, ensure proper healing, and make any necessary adjustments to optimize your visual outcomes.
Are you interested in learning more about LASIK? Schedule an appointment at Associates in Ophthalmology in Livingston, NJ, today!
