Laser
in situ keratomileusis, which means using a laser underneath a
corneal flap (in situ) to reshape the cornea (keratomileusis), is
more commonly known as Lasik surgery.
This
procedure has quickly become a widely recognized and available laser
vision correction
surgery
option to correct many refractive errors. Refractive errors are what
are experienced when the shape of the eye keeps you from focusing
clearly. The cause could be the length of the eye, changes in the
shape of the cornea or aging of the lens in the eye. The most
common refractive errors are Myopia, Hyperopia and Astigmatisms, all
of which can usually be corrected with eye surgery. An excimer laser
is used to correct these refractive errors, limit the dependency of
corrective lenses and improve one’s vision.
There
are many advantages to laser vision correction. Many patients are
extremely pleased with their Lasik
Surgery results and often find a renewed sense of youth with
their new vision. The
benefits
of corrective eye surgery
are
many, and include vision improvement, possibly discontinue relying on
costly corrective eyewear and time consuming contact lenses, and
broadened social, recreational, and career opportunities.
An
ophthalmologist/optometrist will determine if you are a candidate for
your procedure. Only after a thorough eye exam is performed can they
determine your candidacy. Many things are taken into account: eye
prescription history, current prescription/health of eyes, corneal
thickness, pupil size, age and any previous refractive surgeries.
During
your procedure your surgeon will create a flap in the cornea with
either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap will
then be folded away from the cornea to allow the laser treatment to
re-shape the cornea. Your current prescription will determine how the
laser will re-shape the cornea to correct the refractive error then
the corneal flap is gently placed back down into its original
position. Your vision may be clearer but could be blurry the first
couple of days after surgery, and you may need to adjust your work,
activity or travel schedule or even clear your schedule after surgery
to fully recuperate.
