Vision correction for many with refractive errors usually starts with eyeglasses. They would be grateful for the gift of near-perfect vision but soon realize their limitations. They may venture into contact lenses but discover they also present other challenges. The satisfaction that they yearn for likely rests on LASIK vision correction.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK is an acronym for laser in-situ keratomileusis, a surgical procedure that helps correct refractive errors. It is one of many eye surgeries to improve vision, but it is the most popular. During the procedure, the eye doctor creates a flap on the cornea and then shaves off the underlying layer.
Shaving the underlying layers allows the eye doctor to reshape the cornea and correct the vision impairment. While LASIK is one of the most successful elective procedures available, it has risks and benefits. It is important to understand both before you decide to have the procedure.
Pros of LASIK
It Is Quick and Safe
LASIK is a quick surgery that takes only a few minutes, making it an outpatient procedure. You could be put under or given something to calm your nerves if you stay awake. The eye doctor's laser is designed to go off if it senses sudden eye movement. This feature is key in preventing any injury or error during the procedure.
Fast Results
You will not need to set aside weeks or months; you will start to see well within hours of the procedure. After 24 hours, you will notice significant changes in the quality of your vision and resume normal activities in 48 hours.
You Can Eliminate the Need for Prescriptive Eyewear
One of the key factors driving people to get LASIK is to stop using glasses or contacts. They have tired of the options' limitations and wish to be free of them. Many patients can get 20/40 vision with LASIK, some 20/20 or even higher. The only eyewear you may require after a successful procedure is sunglasses for UV protection.
Cons of LASIK
You May Fail to Qualify
If you are older and over 40, you may not be a good candidate because close-up vision issues that develop at this time are not cornea-related. Older people with close-up vision issues often have presbyopia, affecting the lens and not the cornea. Also, LASIK poses more danger than a solution if you do not have enough corneal tissue.
It Can Be Risky
Sometimes, LASIK patients can experience dry eye syndrome for up to three months after the surgery. They may also experience halos or glares at night. But all these side effects usually disappear after a few months, and technology is constantly improving to limit these occurrences.
Flap Injuries Can Happen
The flap that the eye doctor creates to reshape the cornea can become dislodged after the surgery. It is more likely immediately after the surgery, but some experts say it could happen even years after, especially if the impact is significantly forceful.
For more on the pros and cons of LASIK surgery, visit Grin Eye Care at our offices in Leawood or Olathe in Kansas, or Kansas City, Missouri. Call (913) 829-5511 or (816) 333-8600 to book an appointment today.
