A Look at the LASIK Procedure
Posted on Apr 23, 2015 1:10pm PDT
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a highly popular and effective
way of correcting vision problems while attaining freedom from dependence
on eyeglasses and contact lenses. During your
LASIK consultation in Chicago, your LASIK surgeon can walk you through the procedure and explain the
technology he or she will use. There have been numerous advances in laser
eye surgery technology, which have made the procedure safer, faster, and
more effective.
Identifying Ideal Candidates
Many people are good candidates for LASIK eye surgery; however, only your
ophthalmologist can determine if it’s right for you. You may be
a good candidate if you have refractive errors, which are nearsightedness,
farsightedness, and astigmatism. The LASIK procedure corrects these vision
problems by reshaping the cornea, which allows the eye to more effectively
focus rays of light on the retina.
Understanding the Procedure
Before going ahead with the LASIK procedure, your ophthalmologist will
make sure you understand what’s involved. First, the ophthalmologist
will administer a topical anesthetic to the eyes to numb them. Then, he
or she will place an eyelid holder between the eyelids. This prevents
you from blinking during the procedure. A suction ring placed on the eye
prevents the eye from moving, and lifts and flattens the cornea. Although
this procedure is painless, you may feel some pressure at this point.
Additionally, your vision may become dim. This is normal. Then, the ophthalmologist
uses a special laser to
create a flap on the cornea, which allows the laser to shape the corneal tissue. The flap is sealed
back in place without stitches. The entire procedure takes only a few
minutes per eye.
Recovering from the Procedure
After the LASIK procedure, you should have someone drive you home. Plan
to spend the remainder of the day resting quietly at home. It’s
critical to avoid rubbing your eyes because this can dislodge the corneal
flap. To protect your corneas, your ophthalmologist will give you an eye
shield to wear over each treated eye. You’ll also receive instructions
on applying eye drops to relieve any dryness and facilitate healing.