LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted-In-Situ Keratomileusis, is an out-patient procedure that reshapes the cornea in the eye, so that it focuses light onto the retina in a way that results in better vision for the patient. Approximately 90% of LASIK patients achieve their desired vision after surgery. If you are unhappy with your vision, then you might consider corrective eye surgery. Before you speak to a doctor about what LASIK might do for your vision, it could be helpful to know the various options in terms of the types of LASIK surgery, the different types of lasers, and what the surgeon’s role will be.
Types of LASIK Eye Surgery
- Custom
- Bladeless
- Wavefront Technology
These different types of LASIK eye surgery are employed depending on the desired results, and depending on the health and condition of your eyes. Did you know that LASIK is just one type of eye surgery? Other laser eye surgeries include PRK, LASEK, and CK. If LASIK is not a good option for you, the other types may be.
The LASIK Eye Laser
- Spot scanning lasers
- Slit scanning lasers
- Wavefront-guided lasers
These are the different excimer lasers used to conduct eye LASIK surgery. The excimer laser is what reshapes the corneal tissues, so that light hits the retina in a way that results in clearer vision. However, first a microkeratome or femtosecond laser is used to cut a flap in the cornea to provide the surgeon with access to the layers to be reshaped.
The LASIK Eye Doctors
Eye LASIK surgery should be performed by a licensed eye surgeon with specialty in refractive surgery. You should be able to verify their licensing with the state. Board certification and membership in the American College of Surgeons might also be criteria that you want to consider. The eye doctor may perform several tests to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for surgery, and which laser would work best for your needs. These tests measure air pressure, pupil dilation, refraction, corneal thickness, and corneal mapping. After LASIK eye treatment, some patients will experience minor discomfort, such as dryness, or blurring. Having your surgery and check up performed by an experienced doctor will reduce the chances of serious side effects, and ensure that your healing process is accomplished smoothly.
LASIK eye surgery may be an ideal elective surgery for good candidates looking to improve or completely correct issues such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Unfortunately, higher corrective prescriptions tend not to be ideal for LASIK, as treating them would create a higher risk for complications. If you are considering LASIK, your first step is to find a qualified surgeon, and to determine if eye LASIK surgery is right for you. Remember that there are different lasers and types of surgery, so it is important to discuss with your surgeon what they recommend. To learn more, read this.