LASIK surgery is a type of medical procedure that can correct vision problems. This particular surgical procedure permits patients to live their lives without depending on eye contacts or glasses. The procedure usually lasts 30 minutes and involves using a laser device to cut a flap in the cornea. A laser is then used to reshape the cornea. As with any medical procedure, there are pros and cons to receiving LASIK surgery. Smart consumers weigh these pros and cons before committing to such a life-altering medical procedure.
LASIK surgery can help patients who no longer wish to depend on corrective lenses and eye contacts. For example, people who are active in sports often choose to undergo LASIK so that they can avoid damaging expensive eye glasses or losing their eye contacts. Many people have worn eye glasses or contacts since childhood and wish to save money by eliminating the need for these items. Glasses and eye contact prescriptions must be renewed on a frequent basis. In contrast, LASIK surgery is a permanent solution for patients with low vision.
Immediate vision enhancement
Another positive result of undergoing LASIK surgery is the fact that it provides almost immediate vision enhancement for patients. People who undergo LASIK can enjoy improvement in the clarity and sharpness of their vision. Patients often recover quickly from the procedure and can return to work and school in a short period of time following the surgery.
Risks
Despite the positive aspects of LASIK surgery, there are risks involved as well. In some cases, patients may experience vision loss as a result of LASIK. Contact lenses, glasses, or surgery cannot be used to correct this vision loss. In severe cases, other patients may suffer from double vision after undergoing LASIK. They may even see halos or experience glare while driving at night. Other patients may undergo surgery that under- or over-corrects their vision. They may then require additional surgery or need to continue wearing glasses or contacts. LASIK has also been known to cause infection or scarring of the cornea.
Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. For example, patients who are below age 18 are not candidates for this type of eye procedure. Those whose glasses or eye contact prescription changes on a regular basis are also not suited for LASIK. This includes diabetics and patients who take medicine that causes frequent changes in eye sight. Patients who experience difficulties with the immune system are also ineligible for LASIK since there is a risk that they will not heal properly following surgery.
Before undergoing LASIK surgery, a patient receives an initial consultation from an eye doctor. The doctor will evaluate the patient’s medical condition and determine whether or not he or she is a good candidate for the procedure. During the consultation, the eye doctor will discuss the pros and cons of LASIK, discussing alternative treatments as well. A good eye doctor will inform the patient about what to expect before, during, and after LASIK surgery. After receiving information about the procedure, patients can make informed decisions about whether LASIK is right for them.
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