LASIK eye surgery reshapes the cornea and produces clear vision. This surgery can treat astigmatism, hyperopia (farsightedness) and myopia (nearsightedness). It helps to reduce use of glasses and contact lenses. Focusing power of the eye is disturbed due to refractive errors, patients suffering from these conditions may experience blurred vision. Focusing power of the eye can be improved by Lasik eye surgery.
Who can undergo LASIK treatment?
- A patient should be healthy and at least 18 years old.
- A patient who has experienced an injury or eye infection in the past year is not allowed to undergo LASIK treatment.
- Eye refraction should be stable for one year at least.
- You should not be on prescription drugs.
- The patient should not be pregnant.
- You should not be suffering from autoimmune or degenerative disease.
- Ophthalmologist or eye surgeon can suggest if you can undergo this treatment.
- During eye exam, ophthalmologist checks your medical history and eyes.
Preparation for the surgery
Following precautions are to be followed by the patient before undergoing LASIK treatment:
- Avoid using soft contact lens at least two weeks before the surgery to restore the normal shape of the cornea. You can use glasses.
- Avoid using hard contact lens before six weeks of surgery.
- Avoid using lotions, cosmetics or creams on the eyes and face one day before surgery.
LASIK benefits and risks
- LASIK eye surgery has many benefits which include freedom from corrective eye wear, improved visual activity and provides new career opportunities.
- People who are successful in LASIK treatment can eliminate use of contact lens and glasses and enjoy clear vision all the time.
- Patients can swim, play sports and participate in any activities without the restrictions of contact lens and glasses.
A small percentage of patients experience complications because of this eye surgery.
- Risks include glared or haloed vision, dry eyes, sensitivity to light, loss of visual clarity, irregular astigmatism and sensitivity.
- However, advanced LASIK technology has reduced the complications and most of the problems can be corrected easily with additional treatment.
