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LASIK is a surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea of the eye. This reshaping changes focusing power and usually corrects vision. Surgery may be done on both eyes, either at the same time or on separate occasions.
LASIK is done to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Most people who get LASIK will still need reading glasses at middle age and beyond to correct for presbyopia (decreased ability to focus due to age). Be sure to discuss presbyopia with your doctor prior to getting LASIK so that you understand how it will affect your vision.
LASIK eye surgery has a relatively low complication rate, but they can occur. Possible complications include, but are not limited to:
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Your doctor will likely do the following:
Leading up to your procedure:
Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure, like:
Drops are given to numb the surface of the eye. You may be given a sedative to help you relax during the procedure.
You will be positioned on your back in a reclining chair. The area surrounding your eye will be cleaned. Numbing drops will be placed in your eye. The eyelid will be held open with a special device. A ring will be placed on the eye and pressure is applied to create suction. A blade will then be attached to the suction ring. The doctor will use the blade to cut a flap in the cornea. The doctor will fold back the flap.
You will look into a light (not the laser). A laser will be directed to remove a specific amount of corneal tissue. The laser will make a ticking sound as it reshapes the cornea. At this point, some patients report a smell similar to burning hair. Once the laser is finished, the corneal flap will be gently placed back into position. Antibiotic drops will be put in the eye. A shield will be placed over the eye.
There are other ways to do laser vision correction surgery. One includes using a laser to make the flap in the cornea. The other includes removing the top layer of the cornea with a special device or chemical, then using the laser. Ask your doctor which procedure is best for you.
Less than 30 minutes.
You will likely feel some discomfort when the suction ring is applied. Just after the procedure, expect a burning or itching sensation or the feeling that there is a foreign object in your eye. Your eye may tear and be red and bloodshot. You will most likely have a loss of vision at times during the procedure. This is normal.
You will wear a shield to protect your eye from injury or pressure, even while sleeping. When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:
Vision changes and redness should gradually improve over several days. However, it may take up to six months for your vision to completely stabilize. Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits.
Your doctor will tell you when you are allowed to return to normal activities. Most people can return to work within several days. You may be able to return to noncontact sport activities within several days but must avoid strenuous contact sports for at least several weeks. Do not swim or sit in a hot tub or whirlpool until cleared by your doctor (usually at least 1-2 months).
Additional surgery may be necessary to further correct or enhance vision. If more surgery is needed, wait until your eyesight has stabilized. It is usually considered to be stable when you have consistent measurements on at least two consecutive exams several months apart.
RESOURCES:
Eye Surgery Education Council
http://www.lasikinstitute.org/
LASIK Surgery
US Food and Drug Administration
https://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/SurgeryandLifeSupport/LASIK/default.htm
References:
American Academy of Ophthalmology website. Available at: http://www.aao.org/.
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Eric L. Berman, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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