LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is a procedure used to fix problems with sight, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. These corrections are made by adjusting the shape of the cornea using laser technology. LASIK is done in an outpatient setting.
What is it?
LASIK eye surgery (refractive surgery) is used to correct vision problems from astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness, resulting in 20/20 vision and patients no longer needing to wear corrective contacts or eyeglasses. It is a surgical procedure that uses flap creation and corneal reshaping to achieve its goals, much like other eye surgeries. Pre-op and post-op procedures exist, and the surgery itself is divided into the two steps highlighted above.
What should I do to prepare?
If you are preparing for LASIK eye surgery, you should stop wearing your contacts and switch to full-time glasses. You should also avoid wearing eye makeup before surgery.
What happens during the process?
During LASIK, a soft corneal suction ring is applied to the eye, holding it in place. Once the eye is immobilized, a thin blade cuts a flap in the top layer of the cornea. A laser is used to vaporize the remaining corneal tissue in a controlled manner once the flap is folded back. After this reshaping is finished, the corneal flap is replaced. It remains there in natural position until healing is completed.
What are the risks and potential complications?
As with any medical procedure, LASIK eye surgery carries some risks. These include infections, aberrations, dry eyes, bright light halos or starbursts, detached corneal flap, and hemorrhages.
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