LASIK is a laser eye surgery that employs lasers to correct vision issues, particularly those brought on by refractive defects. When your eye fails to bend light properly, it causes vision distortion, which is known as a refractive error. For instance, it might lead to nearsightedness, farsightedness, or fuzzy vision. “Laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses” is the abbreviation for this term. In the medical world, “keratomileusis” refers to reshaping the cornea in your eye. “In situ” means “in position” or “in place.”
Why is LASIK performed?
If the light isn’t focused properly on your retina, it causes hazy vision. Doctors refer to this as a refractive error. These are the fundamental types:
- Nearsightedness (myopia). When something is close to you, you can see it, yet, it becomes hazy when something is far away.
- Farsightedness (hyperopia). While close objects are hazy, distant objects are more distinct.
- Astigmatism. Considering the shape of your eye, this may cause things to seem hazy.
You may be questioned before undergoing lasik if
- You are less than 18 years of age.
- Whether you’re nursing or expecting to
- Take specific prescription drugs.
- Your eyesight prescription has seen a lot of recent modifications.
- If corneas are thin or irregular,
- People are suffering from glaucoma or extremely dry eyes.
- A history of diabetes, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, among other medical conditions
A refractive error: what causes it?
A refractive error results from an abnormal cornea. Your eye’s lens is a flexible tissue layer beneath your iris, and your cornea is your eye’s top, outermost layer. The cornea and lens of your eye bend light so that it refracts onto your retina, which then transmits information to your brain. Images are created out of that data.
How LASIK works?
Two types of laser eye surgery are sold commercially. LASIK was created later than PRK, which is an earlier variant. The corneal shape is to blame for all abnormalities in the eye’s refractive power. The excimer laser delivers a cold ultraviolet beam with a specified wavelength (usually 193 nano microns) to re-modulate corneal tissue during LASIK. Clear eyesight is made possible by a properly moulded cornea’s surface, enabling light rays to focus on the retina correctly. Lasers treat nearsightedness and farsightedness by flattening the cornea and steepening it. Because laser eye surgery is so accurate, the repairs are completed precisely and in a sterile setting to reduce the danger of infection. For improved results, lasers are equipped with eye trackers that enable proper laser light focusing on the cornea’s centre and the visual axis. The laser conducts its work in under a minute, yet the laser surgical operation only takes less than 10 minutes per eye. Your vision should return to its normal state within a day or two, but it may take up to a week to fully stabilize.
Does Lasik eye surgery hurt?
Although it’s unusual, you might feel pressure in your eyes while the treatment is being done. Your surgeon will provide anaesthetic drops to numb your eyes before surgery. The cornea, the outer layer of your eyes, will be sliced with a tiny blade or laser. Your eyes will then be reshaped using a laser after that. Following your surgery, your eyes may: itch, burn, or feel like something is in them. You will be provided with a shield to prevent you from touching or unintentionally poking your eyes. Additionally, the shield prevents you from placing pressure on your eyes as you sleep. After surgery, you may experience mild discomfort or pain once the anaesthesia wears off.
Reduce Lasik pain
Even though LASIK side effects, including pain, might not be avoidable, several things can be done during recovery to lessen the bad sensations. To lessen pain and suffering after LASIK surgery, patients may consider the following advice:
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary.
- After surgery, keep your eyes protected with dark sunglasses and stay out of the sun as much as possible, and for the first few days afterwards, avoid bright lights.
- When you first get home following surgery, your eyes will be very sensitive, so schedule some time for sleep.
- Use the prescribed eye drops to reduce swelling and prevent an uncomfortable infection.
- To keep your eyes from being too dry, use hydrating eye frequently drops throughout the day.
- Avoid scratching or rubbing your eyes because doing so could harm the surgically created corneal flap and result in an uncomfortable consequence.
- Strictly adhere to all post-operative care instructions to increase the likelihood of a speedy and painless healing process.
The benefits of LASIK eye surgery
Most patients with LASIK surgery have vision between 20/20 and 20/40 about 90% of the time (without glasses or contact lenses). Not “excellent,” but rather average and healthy, 20/20 eyesight. According to studies, 95% of those who have had LASIK eye surgery are happy with the outcomes.
Do’s and don’ts
Avoid vigorous activities after your LASIK operation until your eye heals. Your ophthalmologist may suggest the following dietary adjustments:
- After two weeks, stop using eye makeup.
- For three days and four weeks, refrain from engaging in contact sports.
- For a minimum of four weeks, wear your eye protection at night.
- At least four weeks must pass without swimming or using a hot tub.
