LASIK is an acronym that stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis in the field of ophthalmology, although it is most commonly referred to as laser eye surgery. The procedure is designed as an elective, long-term solution for individuals with certain refractive errors such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. After gaining FDA approval in 1999, LASIK became a top choice for permanent vision correction.
This is achieved through the use of a specialized laser that reshapes the tissue within the eye. Through this process, a skilled ophthalmologist is able to change the way that the eye bends and interprets light. As these refraction errors are the result of misshapen corneas, reshaping them results in improved vision.
Considering LASIK eye surgery? Explore some of the top benefits and potential risks before scheduling an initial LASIK consultation.
Benefits
For individuals with visual impairments, contact lenses or glasses are a big part of their daily lives. They rely on these aids, and over time this can become a nuisance. When LASIK is chosen to improve someone’s quality of life, they are greeted with a host of benefits, including:
Improved Vision
While LASIK does not guarantee 20/20 vision in all cases, many patients report perfect or near-perfect vision after undergoing LASIK. Individual circumstances will ultimately determine the level of improvement. Despite this, around 96% of LASIK patients report that they are satisfied with their results.
Painless Procedure
The thought of surgery on the eyes sounds like a painful process, but patients are surprised to learn that the procedure is safe and pain-free. The use of a specialized laser ensures minimal discomfort. Additionally, ophthalmologists administer eye drops containing local anesthetic to numb the eyes first.
Quick Process
LASIK is performed as an outpatient procedure and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Afterward, recovery can take as little as a few hours or up to a week. In either case, the recovery period involves temporarily blurred vision, visual fluctuations, and/or mild discomfort.
Save Time and Money
Approximately 45 million people across the United States wear contact lenses or glasses on a daily basis. The average contact wearer alone spends between $400 and $500 per year on lenses. Those who wear glasses incur similar expenses. By undergoing LASIK, many patients no longer need them. Additionally, they do not have to spend time attending various eye-related appointments.
Long-Lasting Results
LASIK is a permanent solution to remedy refraction errors in the eye. It does not wear off over time, yet certain circumstances may hinder its effectiveness as patients age, such as cataracts. Despite this, this is rare and most patients who undergo LASIK never need more corrective eye surgeries.
Risks of LASIK
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with LASIK that patients should take into consideration. Although not common, potential downsides to LASIK include:
Dry Eyes
One of the most common side effects experienced after LASIK is dry eyes. This is because the procedure can alter the tear production process. Fortunately, this only lasts for the first six months after LASIK and is managed with eye drops.
Sensitivity to Light
Immediately following the LASIK procedure, patients may experience a range of light sensitivities. This can be mild to severe, but generally only lasts for a few days up to several weeks.
Ineligibility
To ensure the best results, a skilled ophthalmologist carefully evaluates each patient’s circumstances before scheduling a LASIK procedure. Unfortunately, not all patients are good candidates for the procedure. Those with autoimmune disorders or certain eye conditions like glaucoma, for example, may be ineligible for LASIK.
