Posted by: Associates in Ophthalmology (NJ) in LASIK
With LASIK, you can reduce your dependency on glasses or contacts and enjoy clear vision with this safe, effective laser procedure. If you’re ready to say goodbye to blurred vision, LASIK could be the answer.
Keep reading to learn more about LASIK, including how long the procedure takes!
What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis) is a type of laser eye surgery that reshapes the clear front surface of your eye, which is called the cornea, to improve vision. It’s one of the most common ways to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
By reshaping your cornea, the light that enters your eye is now able to land directly on your retina, which is a process necessary to attain clear vision. LASIK can allow you to experience greater visual freedom with reduced dependence on visual aids.
How Does LASIK Work?
When you are deciding whether or not LASIK is right for you, it can help you understand what happens during the procedure. First, numbing drops are put in your eye to prevent discomfort.
Next, your LASIK surgeon uses a laser or blade to create a thin flap in the top layer of the cornea. This flap is folded back to expose the corneal tissue underneath.
The excimer laser gently reshapes the exposed corneal tissue in a matter of seconds. This helps improve the eye’s focus.
After the laser has completed the reshaping, the flap is laid back into position, where it sticks without any stitches needed. As the cornea heals over the next few weeks and months, your vision improves!
What Happens on the Day of Surgery?
On the day of your procedure, you will need to arrive early to get prepare for the surgery. Numbing drops are put in your eyes first, so you have time to get comfortable and ready.
Your eye doctor will place a device to gently hold your eyelids open during the procedure. The laser flap is made, folded back, the cornea is reshaped, and the flap is replaced.
After the procedure, your eye doctor may place protective shields over your eyes before you go home. Although you may be at the office for two to three hours on the day of your procedure, the actual laser treatment is less than thirty minutes in total.
Does LASIK Surgery Take All Day?
No! The entire LASIK procedure takes about ten to twenty minutes per eye. That said, plan on being at the surgery center for a couple of hours, since you’ll need time to prepare and recover afterward.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most patients see improvement in their vision within twenty-four hours after LASIK. Your vision might fluctuate during the first few days but will stabilize over the next few months.
Full recovery takes around three to six months. During that time, you may have some mild discomfort, tearing, glare sensitivity, or vision changes.
Avoiding strenuous activity for the first month helps healing. Listen to your ophthalmologist’s post-op instructions to help ensure the best results.
The LASIK procedure is quick, vision improves rapidly, and recovery is fast. With LASIK’s excellent outcomes, a few hours of your time is well worth the lifetime of clear vision you’ll enjoy!
Are you interested in learning more about LASIK or determining if you may be a candidate for the procedure? Schedule a LASIK consultation at Associates in Ophthalmology in Livingston, NJ, today!
