When it comes to our precious eyesight, it’s only natural to have concerns and questions about procedures like LASIK eye surgery. LASIK is a very popular procedure that helps you correct your vision without wearing glasses or contacts, but you might wonder, “Is LASIK eye surgery safe?”.
For a short answer, yes! It is safe. LASIK vision correction surgery has been used for almost 25 years with great success and very few complications. In this blog article, we’ll delve into the world of LASIK eye surgery to help you understand the procedure, its potential side effects, and what to expect from this life-changing surgery.
What Does LASIK Eye Surgery Involve?
LASIK, which stands for “Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis,” is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK can correct vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Here’s an overview of the LASIK process:
- Consultation: Your LASIK journey begins with a thorough consultation with an eye specialist. During this appointment, your eye health will be evaluated, and your candidacy for LASIK will be determined.
- Preparation: On the day of the surgery, numbing eye drops will be administered to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Corneal Flap Creation: Using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser, a thin flap is created on the cornea. This flap is lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to precisely remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to reshape the cornea according to your specific vision correction needs.
- Corneal Flap Replacement: The corneal flap is gently repositioned after the cornea is reshaped.
- Recovery: You’ll rest for a short period after the surgery. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in vision.
It is important to highlight that for most patients, it is a pain-free procedure, but some might experience mild discomfort. Remember that every person is different and might experience different levels of sensation.
Does LASIK Have Side Effects?
If you are still wondering how safe is LASIK surgery for your eyes? Like any surgical procedure, LASIK has potential side effects; however, these tend to be mild and temporary in most cases. Common side effects include:
- Dry Eyes: Temporary dryness is common after LASIK and can be managed with artificial tears.
- Glare and Halos: Some patients experience glare and halos around lights at night, but this often diminishes over time.
- Fluctuating Vision: Your vision may take a few weeks to stabilize completely.
- Infection or Inflammation: While rare, these complications can occur but are typically treatable.
Overall, the risks associated with LASIK eye surgery are low compared to the potential benefits of improved vision without glasses or contacts.
What to Expect Out of a LASIK Surgery?
After LASIK surgery, you can expect a significant improvement in your vision. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. Here’s what else you can anticipate:
- Fast Recovery: Most people can return to work and normal activities within a day or two.
- Less Dependence on Glasses and Contacts: LASIK can provide enhanced vision, eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Generally, refractive surgery offers a high probability of achieving 20/40 vision or better. Say goodbye to the inconvenience and embrace improved visual acuity.
- Improved Quality of Life: LASIK can enhance your overall quality of life by reducing the limitations of corrective eyewear.
Leaders in Vision Correction in Reno
LASIK eye surgery is a safe and effective way to correct vision problems and reduce your reliance on glasses and contacts. While it has potential side effects, most patients experience improved vision and an enhanced quality of life after the procedure.
If you’re considering LASIK, consult with a qualified eye surgeon to determine if you are a suitable candidate and to address any questions or concerns you may have. Here at Eye Care Professionals, our experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists are deeply committed to protecting and preserving your vision, eye health, and quality of life. We place our patients’ needs at the forefront of everything we do, offering the most complete eye care in the region. Get in touch with us today to book your consultation!
