Lasik surgery effective in correcting vision

LASIK (Laser in Situ Keratomilensis), is the most widely performed laser vision correction today. It is effective in correcting short sightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hyperopia) and even astigmatism. The procedure is performed in an out-patient surgery center, using a special piece of equipment called Exlimer laser.

You may be a good candidate for lasik if you meet the following criteria.

(a) Enjoy general good health
(b) Have no eye disease
(c) Have a relatively stable prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
(d) Over 18 years old
(e) Understand the risks and benefits of lasik
(f) Have reasonable expectations.
You probably shouldn’t consider lasik if you fall under one or more of the following conditions.

(a) If you are suffering from or have a history of eye diseases like ocular herpes, cataracts, keratoconus and glaucoma.

(b) Under 18 years old
(c) Pregnant and nursing
(d) Using steroid drugs
(e) Suffering from autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogresis syndrome etc.

Before the lasik procedure you have to undergo eye examination including refraction of your eyes, corneal topography, pachymetry and retinal evaluation, to make sure that you will be a suitable candidate for lasik.

On the day of lasik procedure do not wear eye make up, jewellery, cologne or hair spray. Your vision may be blurry after the procedure, so be sure to bring some one who can drive you back home.

Your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops so that you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Once everything is prepared, the doctor will place a speculum between upper and lower eye lids to prevent blinking. Then he will use an instrument called microkeratome to make a hinged flap on the surface of cornea. They you will be asked to focus on a red blinking light so that your eye will be well centered and it is time for the computer guided Exlimer laser to accurately reshape the corneal tissue. The laser will only be used for about a minute. Then doctor will carefully put the flap back in place and remove the eye speculum.

After the lasik procedure, you will rest and relax in the recovery room for about an hour. It is important not to rub your eyes after the procedure, so you will be given plastic eye shields to place over your eyes. This will prevent accidental rubbing while you are sleeping. You will be given eye drops to take with you, which will aid your eyes in normal heating and prevent infection.

Many patients return to work the very next day after the procedure, already enjoying improved vision. A day after lasik procedure the doctor will see you for a post operation check and then followed by regular check ups at internals of one week, one month, three months and six months for one year.

In the days following the procedure, you can resume normal activities, but it is a good idea to do the following:

(a) Wear sunglasses for a few days
(b) Wait a day or two before showering
(c) Do not rub your eyes
(d) Do not wear ye make up
(e) Avoid dust, swimming, gardening
(f) Avoid opportunities for eye injury
(g) Do not drive until your vision has improved.

You may experience some haziness, discomfort, mild burning, dryness, sensitivity to light and haloes, but then side effects should only be temporary. You will soon be enjoying freedom from glass and contact lenses.