LASIK – LASIK – Laser keratomileusis

Description LASIK

LASIK is a procedure, wherein an excimer laser is used, allowing to perform surgery on the cornea. The operation changes the shape of the cornea, allowing to improve eyesight. The operation can be done in one or both eyes simultaneously, and at various times.

Reasons for LASIK

LASIK is performed, to eliminate the need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

Most people, undergoing LASIK, still have to use reading glasses in middle age and later to correct presbyopia (decreased ability to focus the lens due to age). Be sure to discuss the terms and risks of presbyopia with a physician before performing LASIK, to understand, how it will affect your eyesight.

Possible complications of LASIK

LASIK has a relatively low incidence of complications, but they can still occur. Possible complications include, but are not limited:

• Improper correction of corneal;
• Infection;
• Scarring;
• Blurred or fuzzy vision;
• Poor vision in low light;
• Ghosting or rays around the light source;
• Prolonged dry, discomfort or pain in the eyes;
• Short-lived improvement in vision;
• Permanent decrease or loss of vision, that can not be corrected with glasses or contact lenses;
• Need for additional laser or surgery.

Some factors, that may increase the risk of complications:

• Pre-existing eye diseases (eg, glaucoma) or variations in shape of the cornea (eg, Keratoconus);
• Eye Infections (eg, .Aloe);
• Dry eyes;
• Thin corneas;
• The large size of the pupil;
• Autoimmune diseases, Immunodeficiency, as well as other disorders, or the use of medicines, which impede wound healing;
• Diabetes;
• Other visual disturbances.

How is LASIK?

Preparation for the procedure

A doctor holds:

• Complete eye examination;
• Review and revision of the medication.

In the run-up procedure:

• It is best to stop wearing contact lenses at least 2-4 weeks prior to surgery. The time period will depend on the type of contact lenses and eye examination results;
• We need to organize a trip for the operation and back home from the hospital;
• Do not use lotion, cream, makeup, perfume the day before and the day after surgery;
• You may be asked to clean the eyelashes and / or use eye drops before the surgery.

Consult your doctor about the drugs taken. A week before the surgery may need to stop taking some medicines:

• Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Blood thinners, such as clopidogrel (Plaviks) or warfarin.

Anesthesia

To numb the eye, apply a drop of anesthetic. You may be given a sedative, to help relax during the procedure.

LASIK Procedure

You will lie on your back in a reclining chair. The area around the eyes will be cleared. Eye drops are applied painkillers. The eyelid is maintained in the open state with a special device. In the eyes will be placed a ring, pressured, to create suction. The suction ring is then attached blade. The doctor will use the blade, to discover part of the cornea and move it aside. This stage is called the creation of the corneal flap.

In the next step you will have to look at the light source (not laser). The laser is used to remove the desired amount of corneal tissue. During exposure to the cornea laser will emit a ticking sound. At this point, some patients report the smell, similar to the smell of burning hair. After, as the effect of the laser is finished, the corneal flap will be gently placed on the spot. Eye cleared of antibiotic. In the eye bandage.

There are other surgical methods for laser vision correction. One involves the use of laser, to remove a portion of the cornea and form a corneal flap.

In another case, the removal of the upper layer of the cornea is done using a special device or chemicals, and then the final correction performed by laser. Ask the doctor, which procedure is best for you.

How long will the LASIK?

Less than 30 minutes.

LASIK – Will it hurt?

You, probably, You feel some discomfort, will be applied when the suction ring. Immediately after the procedure may feel a burning sensation, itching, or foreign body sensation in the eye. The eyes may be red and inflamed and bloodshot. Sometimes after LASIK vision may deteriorate for some time. This is a normal condition.

Care after LASIK

You will wear a bandage, to protect the eyes from damage or pressure, even during sleep. When you return home, Follow these steps:, to ensure the normal recovery:

• Do not rub your eyes;
• Vision may be blurred, you can see halos or rays around lights;
• Take pain medicine as recommended by your doctor;
• Use eye drops, as prescribed by your doctor to prevent infection and decrease inflammation of the eye;
• Do not use contact lenses, If your doctor is not allowed;
• Do not use creams, lotions or make-up of the eye, until the doctor will not allow it (Usually it takes at least two weeks).

Redness of the eyes should be reduced, and vision gradually improve within a few days after the operation. Nonetheless, complete recovery of vision can take up to six months. At this time you need to visit the doctor periodically to inspect.

Your doctor will tell you, when you can return to normal activities. Most people can return to work within a few days after LASIK. You can begin to engage in non-contact sports after a few days after the operation, but should avoid stress, at least a few weeks.

Ask the doctor, when it is safe to shower, bathe, or to expose the surgical site to water.

To further improve vision correction or may need additional surgery. If you need another operation, wait, until your vision stabilizes. Usually, Vision is considered stable, If the results of examinations no significant deviations in the months after LASIK.

Contact your doctor after LASIK

After returning home, you need to see a doctor, If the following symptoms:

• Redness, edema, increased pain, bleeding or discharge from the eyes;
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills;
• Blurred vision;
• Any other issues.