LASIK surgery has revolutionised vision correction by providing a safe and effective alternative to glasses or contact lenses. By addressing refractive errors, it restores clarity to your vision and enhances your everyday experiences.
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a kind of refractive eye surgery that utilises laser technology to correct vision problems. This outpatient procedure allows you to return home the same day. LASIK can be an option for those seeking freedom from contact lenses or glasses. Understanding how LASIK works, along with its advantages and limitations, is essential for making an informed decision. For tailored advice, consult an experienced eye specialist in Bangalore available at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road. Continue reading to explore more about this vision correction procedure.
How Does Lasik Surgery Work?
The cornea, the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye, collaborates with the lens to bend light before it reaches the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. The retina converts incoming light into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain, enabling vision. For clear vision, all parts of the eye must work in harmony.
When light enters the eye, it first passes through the cornea. If the cornea’s shape is irregular, light cannot travel correctly to the retina. LASIK surgery addresses refractive errors, which occur when the eye struggles to properly bend (or refract) light, resulting in blurry vision. LASIK reshapes the cornea to guide light through the correct path, ensuring it reaches the retina accurately and improves overall vision.
Why is Lasik Surgery Done?
LASIK surgery is often recommended to address common vision issues, including:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia): In this condition, the eyeball is slightly longer than normal, or the cornea has an excessive curve. This makes distant objects difficult to see.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Farsightedness develops when the eyeball is shorter than average or the cornea is excessively flat. This causes blurry vision for nearby objects and, in some cases, for distant objects as well.
- Astigmatism: Astigmatism arises when the cornea has an irregular curve or uneven surface. This causes blurriness in both near and distant vision.
Preparation for LASIK Surgery
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful LASIK procedure. Your ophthalmologist or optometrist will take you through the process. Typically, you’ll need to discontinue contact lenses for a few weeks before the procedure and refrain from using makeup, lotions, or perfume the day before surgery. Before the procedure, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess your suitability for LASIK. This includes checking for:
- Dry eye symptoms
- Signs of eye infections or inflammation
- Elevated eye pressure
- Large pupils
Your doctor will also carefully measure your cornea, evaluating its shape, thickness, contour, and any irregularities. This detailed analysis determines the specific areas of your cornea that require reshaping and the precise amount of tissue to be removed for optimal results.
What to Expect During LASIK Surgery?
LASIK surgery is typically completed within 30 minutes. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- The surgeon will apply numbing drops to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the process.
- A suction ring and eyelid speculum are placed to keep your eye open and in position. This may create a sensation of pressure, and your vision might temporarily dim.
- The surgeon makes a thin flap on the cornea, which is then lifted and folded back, similar to turning a page in a book.
- You’ll be asked to focus on a light as a laser reshapes your cornea. During this step you may hear a clicking noise and notice a distinct smell caused by the chemical reaction during corneal reshaping.
- The laser continuously tracks your eye’s position, ensuring precision. It automatically stops if there’s significant movement.
- Once the cornea is reshaped, the flap is placed back in its original position. It starts reattaching immediately and continues healing after the procedure.
Recovery after LASIK Surgery
LASIK is an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. Your surgeon will provide a protective shield to prevent eye contact and accidental touching. Additionally, you’ll receive eye drops to ease dry eye symptoms, minimise infection risks, and reduce inflammation. In the first week following surgery, it’s common to experience:
- Mild discomfort or pain in the eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Dryness or watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
While many people notice improved vision within a few days, complete healing and stable vision may take 2 to 3 months.
LASIK surgery offers a transformative solution for individuals seeking freedom from contact lenses or glasses by correcting common vision problems. This advanced procedure not only enhances visual clarity but also provides the convenience of a short recovery period. However, understanding the process, its benefits, and potential risks is vital for making an informed decision. Consulting a qualified eye specialist in Bangalore, like those available at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road, can help determine if LASIK is the right option for your needs.
