If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you have probably given some thought to the convenience of waking up to perfect vision. Many people are turning that dream into reality of no longer searching for new expensive frames, keeping contact solution on hand or straining to watch your favorite TV show, by considering corrective eye surgery.
When most people begin to consider corrective eye surgery, the well-known LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) procedure immediately comes to mind. LASIK is a technique created to treat all types of refractive eye problems including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and blurred vision (astigmatism). LASIK is considered a safe and effective elective procedure that uses an excimer laser to achieve 20/20 vision. LASIK is a popular choice due to its minimal recovery time of mere days and improved, clear vision very quickly after surgery, with little to no pain or downtime. Ideal candidates are over the age of 18, have healthy eyes, maintain stable vision with no changes in contact lens or glasses prescription for a minimum of 12 months, and most importantly, must have suitable corneal thickness for the procedure.
Once your doctor confirms your eligibility for LASIK, how does LASIK work? First, the surgeon will apply topical anesthetic drops. To begin the procedure, LASIK uses a tiny blade called a microkeratome to create a small, superficial flap in the cornea. The flap is raised to access the underlying cornea, known as the stroma. Some corneal tissue is then removed using an excimer laser via cool ultraviolet beams. This allows the cornea to be reshaped so that so light entering the eye focuses more accurately on the retina for improved vision. The flap is then lowered down so that the cornea can repair itself over time.
The LASIK procedure can be summarized in 6 simple steps:
1. Topical anesthetic is applied
2. Laser creates a cornea flap and the flap is lifted
3. Laser sculpts the cornea
4. The cornea is reshaped
5. The flap is repositioned
6. Vision is corrected
Performed as an outpatient procedure, LASIK does not require general anesthesia, is virtually pain free and is typically performed in under 20 minutes. An estimated 95% of patients who undergo LASIK improve their vision to 20/40 or better, while 85% return to 20/20 vision. Most patients can resume normal activities within 24 hours.
Inland Eye Institute delivers exceptional results and clear vision for our valued LASIK patients through our commitment to safety, quality, care and state-of-the-art equipment. You cannot trust your vision to just anyone. Contact the experts at 909-937-9230 to find out more about how LASIK works. Schedule your appointment today by filling out our easy-to-use online forms at website.
