The Lasik procedure is the most popular type of laser eye surgery available on the market. The name comes from the procedure title laser-assisted in Situ Keratomileusis. It is used to correct poor to bad vision, addressing problems such as nearsightedness (Myopia), far-sightedness (Hyperopia), and astigmatism. It is the ideal solution if you are looking to regain your natural vision without the need for eye glasses or contact lenses. Not only do you no longer need to worry about the hassle of taking your glasses with you everywhere, many people also enjoy the cosmetic advantage that Lasik provides.
What Does the Lasik Procedure Involve?
As the term suggest, Lasik eye surgery involves re-shaping the patient’s cornea by using a laser. The process lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on whether or not both your eyes are being treated and the initial condition of your eyesight. The surgeon will give you a sedative and apply anaesthesia to the eye to ensure the operation is painless and free of any discomfort.
A device is set in between your eyelids to ensure they remain open throughout the procedure. A thin circular flap is then created in the cornea with the use of the Microkeratome instrument. This is then tucked back to allow the corneal tissue to be removed with the use of an Excimer laser. The cornea is reshaped to restore vision, with the flap then being restored.
Advantages of the Lasik Procedure
This procedure comes with many advantages, which is why it has become such a popular option.
- There are few risks involved with the procedure and it achieves a high success level. The surgery can increase the accuracy of your vision by up to 70-80% compared with other eye surgeries.
- Although you need to bare the initial cost of the surgery, it can actually work out cheaper in the long run. You will no longer have to spend money on new glasses or contact lenses, as well as eye examinations.
- The fact that you no longer have to wear glasses has many advantages of its own. Patients are able to enjoy a more active lifestyle, which is often restricted with the use of glasses. Many people also prefer the way they look without glasses.
- A great deal of positive feedback has been given by patients who have undergone the Lasik procedure, with some patients even regaining 20/20 vision, the positive results seem to greatly outweigh the few disadvantages.
Some clinics, such as the Oakland Eye Clinic, offer you the fantastic opportunity to schedule in a free consultation. This will give you the chance to meet with a doctor free of charge while you have all your questions about the procedure answered. They will be able to talk you through the Lasik procedure step by step, so you are fully aware of any risk factors involved. The procedure can really help to change your life, so it is worth going in for a consultation to find out if you are eligible for this low risk and highly effective procedure.
