Lasik Eye Surgery Expert in Perumbakkam
Your Trusted Partner in Lasik Eye Surgery
LASIK eye surgery is a procedure utilized by healthcare providers to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, by reshaping the cornea. This innovative surgery aims to enhance visual clarity and reduce dependence on corrective eyewear, providing patients with improved vision and quality of life. Our commitment lies in delivering comprehensive care and support throughout the LASIK surgery journey, ensuring optimal outcomes and lasting visual acuity for our patients.
Understanding Lasik Eye Surgery
What is Lasik Eye Surgery?
LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular surgical procedure used to correct refractive errors in the eye, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. During LASIK surgery, a laser is used to reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, to improve how light rays are focused onto the retina at the back of the eye.
The procedure involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, either with a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. This flap is then lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue, which is reshaped using an excimer laser. The excimer laser precisely removes tiny amounts of corneal tissue to reshape the curvature of the cornea, correcting the refractive error.
After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned, where it naturally adheres without the need for stitches. The entire LASIK procedure typically takes only a few minutes per eye and is performed on an outpatient basis.
What are Lasik Eye Surgery Types?
LASIK eye surgery typically refers to the basic procedure, but there are variations and alternative techniques that may be used depending on the patient’s specific needs and the surgeon’s preferences. Some of the variations and types of LASIK surgery include:
Traditional LASIK: This is the standard LASIK procedure where a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser is used to create a thin flap in the cornea before reshaping it with an excimer laser.
Bladeless LASIK: Also known as “All-Laser LASIK” or “IntraLASIK,” this technique uses a femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap instead of a microkeratome blade. Bladeless LASIK may offer increased precision and potentially reduce the risk of flap complications.
Wavefront-guided LASIK: Wavefront technology creates a detailed map of the eye’s unique optical system, allowing for customized treatment that addresses higher-order aberrations in addition to basic refractive errors. This can result in sharper vision and better contrast sensitivity, especially in low-light conditions.
Topography-guided LASIK: Similar to wavefront-guided LASIK, this technique uses corneal topography measurements to create a customized treatment plan tailored to the specific irregularities of the cornea. It is particularly beneficial for patients with corneal irregularities such as keratoconus or post-surgical complications.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): While not technically LASIK, PRK is a surface ablation procedure that also uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. Instead of creating a flap, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed before laser treatment. PRK may be recommended for patients with thin corneas or other factors that make flap creation risky.
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis): LASEK is a variation of PRK where the epithelium is loosened with alcohol solution before being lifted and replaced after laser treatment. This may be preferred for patients with thin corneas or those at higher risk of flap complications.
What happens before this procedure?
Eye Examination: Patients undergo a comprehensive eye exam to assess eye health and determine if they’re suitable for LASIK.
Expectations and Risks: The procedure, potential outcomes, and risks are discussed to set realistic expectations.
Medical History: Patient’s medical history is reviewed to identify any factors that may affect candidacy for LASIK.
Diagnostic Tests: Corneal mapping and wavefront analysis help plan the surgery and detect any irregularities.
Contact Lens Wear: Patients may need to stop wearing contact lenses for a specific period before surgery.
Preparation Instructions: Detailed instructions are given on pre-surgery preparations, including medication and skincare.
Informed Consent: Patients provide consent after understanding the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
What happens during these surgeries?
During LASIK surgery, the process typically involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: Eye drops are used to numb the eye, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure. In some cases, a mild sedative may also be administered to help the patient relax.
Creation of Flap: Using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser, a thin flap is created in the outer layer of the cornea. This flap is then gently lifted and folded back to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to precisely reshape the exposed corneal tissue based on the patient’s specific refractive error. The laser removes microscopic amounts of tissue to alter the curvature of the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Replacement of Flap: After the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned onto the treated area of the cornea. It naturally adheres to the underlying tissue without the need for stitches.
Postoperative Care: Patients are given eye drops to promote healing and prevent infection. They are typically advised to rest for a short period after the procedure and to avoid rubbing their eyes or engaging in strenuous activities for a few days.
What happens after Lasik Eye Surgery?
Rest and Recovery: Patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities immediately after surgery.
Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and vision progress.
Eye Drops: Prescription eye drops are used to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Temporary Side Effects: Some patients may experience temporary side effects like dry eyes or glare, which usually improve with time.
Visual Recovery: Vision typically improves within days to weeks after surgery.
Protective Eyewear: Sunglasses may be recommended to protect the eyes from bright light and UV exposure during healing.
Long-term Care: Good eye health habits, such as avoiding eye rubbing and attending regular check-ups, are encouraged for lasting results.
What are the risks or complications of Lasik Eye Surgery?
LASIK eye surgery is generally safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:
Dry Eyes: Many patients experience temporary dryness or discomfort in the eyes following LASIK surgery. In some cases, this dryness may persist for an extended period or become chronic.
Glare, Halos, or Starbursts: Some patients may notice visual disturbances such as glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, particularly at night. These symptoms usually improve over time but may persist in some cases.
Undercorrection or Overcorrection: While LASIK aims to correct refractive errors, there is a small risk of undercorrection or overcorrection, resulting in residual refractive errors that may require further treatment or adjustment.
Regression: In some cases, the initial correction achieved with LASIK may regress over time, leading to a gradual return of refractive error. Additional procedures may be necessary to maintain optimal vision.
Flap Complications: Creating the corneal flap during LASIK surgery carries a risk of flap-related complications, such as flap dislocation, wrinkling, or epithelial ingrowth (growth of epithelial cells under the flap).
Infection: Although rare, LASIK surgery carries a risk of postoperative infection, which may require treatment with antibiotics and can potentially affect vision if left untreated.
Corneal Ectasia: This rare but serious complication involves progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to changes in vision and potentially requiring corneal transplantation to correct.
Visual Symptoms: Some patients may experience persistent visual symptoms such as ghosting, double vision, or loss of contrast sensitivity, particularly in dim lighting conditions.
Complications with Flap Creation: Flap creation using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser may occasionally result in irregular flaps, buttonholes, or free caps, which may necessitate postponing or aborting the surgery.
Other Rare Complications: Other rare complications of LASIK surgery may include corneal scarring, irregular astigmatism, or persistent pain or discomfort in the eyes.
Is Lasik Eye Surgery worth it?
LASIK eye surgery can offer improved vision, convenience, and potentially long-term cost savings for many individuals, enhancing quality of life and confidence. However, it’s essential to consider potential risks, costs, and alternative treatments before deciding if LASIK is worth it for you.
How long does it take to recover from Lasik Eye Surgery?
Recovery from LASIK eye surgery is typically quick, with most patients experiencing improved vision within a day or two after the procedure. While some individuals may notice immediate results, others may experience gradual improvements over the following days and weeks as the eyes heal. Most patients can resume normal activities, including driving and working, within a few days to a week after LASIK surgery. It’s important to follow postoperative care instructions, including using prescribed eye drops and attending follow-up appointments, to ensure optimal healing and long-term visual outcomes.
Frequently Asked Question on Lasik Eye Surgery
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure used to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea with a laser.
Candidates for LASIK should have stable vision, good overall eye health, and realistic expectations about the outcomes. Factors such as age, corneal thickness, and preexisting eye conditions will be considered during a comprehensive eye exam.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort or pressure during LASIK surgery due to the numbing eye drops used. Some may feel slight discomfort or a sensation of pressure, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
LASIK surgery typically takes only a few minutes per eye, with the entire procedure usually completed within 15 to 30 minutes. Both eyes can often be treated during the same session.
Many patients notice improved vision immediately after LASIK surgery, with further improvements occurring over the following days and weeks as the eyes heal. Full visual stabilization may take several weeks.
While LASIK can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts in many cases, some individuals may still require them for certain activities or under certain conditions, such as reading or driving at night.
LASIK provides long-term vision correction for the majority of patients, but it’s possible for vision to change over time due to factors such as aging or other eye conditions. Regular eye exams are recommended to monitor vision and address any changes that may occur.