Lasik Surgery

Lasik Surgery

Lasik surgery, also known as laser surgery, is a procedure designed for those that are dependant upon glasses or contact lenses in order to see properly. The procedure is most commonly used on those that have trouble seeing objects that are far away, a condition known as nearsightedness. This type of surgery has gained popularity and recognition over recent years, and with advancements in technology, eligible patients can expect to complete treatment in just fifteen minutes or so per eye. The surgery is carried out whilst you are awake, and considering that it is classed as surgery, takes next to no time.

How does it work?

Lasik eye surgery works by basically reshaping the cornea, which is the clear film that covers the eye. The aim of the surgery and of the reshaping of the cornea is to allow the eye to refract light more effectively, thus making vision less blurred. In lasik eye surgery, a special tool is used in order to cut a flap and remove eye tissue, enabling the laser to work on the cornea and conduct the reshaping process. The recovery time is also quite short, and you can expect to wear an eye patch for a couple of days. This is followed up by a check-up, and then total recovery time last several weeks in general. This method of surgery has proven so effective that seventy percent of 500,000 recent patients now enjoy 20/20 vision.

The risks of lasik eye surgery

As with all types of surgery, there are risks involved when having lasik eye surgery performed. If you have any doubts, it is advisable to discuss the risks with the consultant or your own doctor prior to attending for the lasik eye surgery procedure. Some of the risks include:

• Scarring
• Over-treatment
• Under-treatment and need for further surgery
• Other human errors or accidents during surgery

Of course, there is also the chance that you may still have to wear glasses or contacts after you have had the surgery done, and this is particularly true for older patients. You may find that you still need glasses or contacts for reading, and you may become more and more dependant on glasses or contacts as you continue to get older.

Finding a doctor for lasik eye surgery

If you are thinking of having lasik eye surgery there are a number of considerations you should take into account. You must weigh up the possible risks and decide whether your level of vision really requires this surgery. You should also look carefully into the clinics and doctors offering lasik eye surgery. With such an important procedure, it is important not to base your final decision on cost alone, although your budget will obviously come into it. Compare the levels of experience and success rates from different clinics, and don’t be afraid to ring and ask to speak to someone for more information or to find out about their procedure and success rate.

You may come across clinics that offer perfect vision or your money back, and these should be strictly avoided. Any reputable clinic will not make guarantees about such procedures, simply because there is no guarantee that it will work. Look for a clinic that is willing to discuss the risks as well as the benefits, and one that will issue you with details about the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, the clinic’s success rate, and other pertinent information about the whole process.