LASIK INFORMATION
(Laser-Assisted-In-Situ Keratomileusis) is an outpatient procedure that typically takes about ten minutes to perform on each eye. It is an extremely effective procedure that is suitable for low, moderate and higher prescriptions. LASIK is currently one of the most frequently performed healthcare procedures in North America.
How does LASIK work?
LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that is used to surgically correct your vision. It works by changing the shape of your cornea, so that light rays focus on or near the retina. When light rays are focused in this manner, your vision is the best that it can be without glasses or contact lenses. Changing the shape of your cornea is accomplished by using an Excimer laser. The Excimer laser emits a cool beam of light that alters the shape of your cornea. LASIK is different from other laser procedures because the laser light is directed to the inner portion of your cornea. Earlier vision correction procedures, such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) apply laser light to the surface cells of the cornea.
With the LASIK procedure, patients frequently have functional vision the first day after surgery. After the procedure your eyes will water and it may feel as if an eyelash is in your eye for 2 to 3 hours. Following that period, there is no pain. Vision will most likely be blurry the first day of LASIK surgery, but should improve greatly after a good night’s sleep. Most patients return to work the day after surgery. Eye drops are only needed for 1 week after surgery.
As discussed above, LASIK works so well because the beam is directed to the inner layer of your cornea. This is accomplished by using a device called a microkeratome. The microkeratome elevates a thin slice of the top layer of your cornea. Then the cornea is folded back, exposing the middle section of the cornea. After using the Excimer laser, the flap is repositioned. The flap re-adheres after approximately 30 seconds.
What are the Risks?
LASIK is a surgical procedure, and like all surgeries, there is a potential for risks and complications. Every eye heals differently, and it is not possible to predict precisely how your eye will heal. Although most patients are very pleased with the results of their refractive surgery, every patient should weigh the chance of experiencing complications against the potential benefits the procedure can provide.
At TruVision, risks of the surgery are discussed with the patient prior to the procedure. Proper pre-operative screening and testing ensures that you are considered a candidate only when it is medically advisable. Diligent post-operative care also helps to identify and address potential healing complications.
