Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
"Questions & Answers"
Q. WHAT IS LASIK?
A. Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis is a method of
reshaping the cornea to correct high degrees of nearsightedness
or farsightedness with or without astigmatism and farsightedness.
During the treatment, the corneal flap is created with a femtosecond
laser or the microkeratome, then the computerized laser removes
thin layers of tissue from the cornea. The cap, when replaced, flattens
to the desired correction so that the eye can focus properly. The
goal is to eliminate or reduce a person’s reliance on contact
lenses and glasses.
Q. WHO IS A CANDIDATE?
A. The treatment is for patients 21 years or older who have
myopia (nearsightedness) with or without astigmatism, or hyperopia
(farsightedness with or without astigmatism) and meet certain visual
and medical criteria. In addition to the visual and medical requirements,
the best candidates tend to be people who are dissatisfied with
their contact lenses or glasses and are motivated to make a change,
whether it’s due to occupational or lifestyle reasons. However,
only an eye doctor who is specially trained can evaluate whether
or not a patient is medically suitable for LASIK.
Q. WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE TREATMENT?
A. First, our doctors, who are specially trained to evaluate
the suitability of patients for LASIK, perform a complete eye exam,
during which the doctors gather the information necessary to achieve
the ideal correction. Prior to the treatment, drops are placed in
the eye to numb it. The patient reclines in a comfortable chair
while the doctor inserts an instrument to keep the patient from
blinking during treatment. First a corneal cap is created using
the IntraLase™ femtosecond laser or a microkeratome, and then
the laser is used to gently remove thin layers of tissue to achieve
the desired correction. An eye shield is put in place over the treated
eye and the patient is free to go home. During the first 24-48 hours
following the treatment, most patients will experience a gritty
sensation in the eye as well as some discomfort. In most cases,
the patient is seen the day after treatment, one to two weeks after
treatment and at about two months following treatment, in order
to make sure the eye is healing properly. In most cases, the patient
will notice improved vision the morning after treatment.
Q. WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE FOR THE TREATMENT?
A. Vision improvement is achieved in 100 percent of the
procedures. Depending on the level of pre-operative correction,
significant improvement in vision without glasses can be achieved.
During your consultation, our doctors will give you an idea of the
level of vision you can expect.
Q. HOW SOON CAN I GO BACK TO WORK AFTER HAVING THE TREATMENT?
A. Typically, patients can go back to work 1-3 days following
the surgery. Many patients prefer to be treated on Friday afternoon
in order to minimize time away from work.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today!
Call 888.834.4441 or Go Online.
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