LASER - What You Would Like To Know!

LASIK or laser in situ keratomileusis is a Laser corrective surgery for patients with refractive errors. The error could be nearsightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hypermetropia) and even astigmatism (cylindrical power in glasses). The procedure aims at modifying and reshaping the cornea, the transparent layer that lines the front of the eye. The cornea is reshaped so that the retina receives a focused light that earlier required either a glass or a contact lens.

So what are a few important things that a person undergoing a LASIK procedure should know? Here is our take:

Advantages:

1. The biggest advantage of LASIK is that it helps people to get rid of glasses and contact lenses, which sometimes are cosmetically unacceptable and in some cases are visually disabling. U gain independence from glasses or contact lenses

2. The best part of LASIK is that it is Quick (total duration of surgery is hardly 5 minutes) and virtually painless.

3. Has a high success rate ( success rate is 96%).

4. Does not require bandages or stitches.

5. Adjustments/Retreatments can be made years later if necessary.

Risks/Side Effects:

There could be a few minor side effects like dryness, glare and halos. They usually subside with time.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Any person 18 yrs or older
2. Stable refraction
3. Corneal thickness and topography should be in the normal range
4. The dilated retinal examination should be normal
5. Adequately wet eyes

Precautions after the Procedure:

1. The patient is likely to have some redness and irritation,watering and temporary dryness.
2. Use medicines and follow instructions diligently as advised by the doctor
3. Avoid any type of eye makeup for at least 1 month after surgery
4. Avoid swimming or water sports for at least 2- 3 weeks after surgery

Undergoing a LASIK procedure is a matter of finding the right specialist and ensuring that you take all the precautions before the procedure. It is important to Reveal your medical history, family history and allergy history if any. History of pregnancy also needs to be told. One should abstain from wearing contact lens at least 2 weeks before the procedure.