Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Key Facts Regarding LASIK Eye Surgery

By Frank Kaufmann


LASIK eye surgery, or LASIK, is the term for the type of eye surgery that employs high-tech lasers. This is a refractive method for correcting eye conditions, such as: astigmatism, hyperopia and myopia. Ophthalmologists are the professionals who do this procedure, as they have received the education on eye diseases, physiology and anatomy. There are many things to know about this process, including risks, cost and results

In general, this laser eye surgery procedure is done to eliminate the need for a patient to wear contact lenses or glasses. The process is much like that of photorefractive keratectomy or PRK. This is another kind of corrective practice. Both procedures signify the advancements that have been made in the treatment options for those with refractive errors. There are people who cannot undergo these procedures because they have corneas that are too thin or high cases of myopia. Phakic intraocular lens is another solution available. An eye doctor will decide what surgery is ideal for your specific condition.

The costs of LASIK are known to vary depending on the region and the doctor. Typically the procedure is a couple thousand dollars. Some surgeons charge a fee for each eye and others offer a package. The amount of correction needed may also influence the total cost. In many cases, the provider will work with patients to set up an affordable payment plan. Some insurance companies will cover a portion of the procedure costs.

The surgery involves reshaping cornea in order to allow light that comes into the eye to be properly focused on retina for clearer vision. In most cases, the process is pain free and completed within an hour. The results are noticeable within the first 24 hours.

Prior to the surgery, a thorough eye exam will be done to ensure that the eyes of the patient are healthy enough for this type of invasive procedure. The doctor will check the thickness of the cornea, size of the pupil, refractive errors, shape of cornea and other characteristics. How moist the eye is will also factor in and precautionary treatment might be recommended to prevent dry eyes after the surgery.

Femtosecond or microkeratome lasers are the instruments used to cut a flap in the cornea. This thin and circular flap is then pulled back, giving the surgeon access to the underlying cornea. To remove cornea tissue, an excimer laser is employed. This structure uses a cool ultraviolet beam of light so that cornea reshaping can be done and light will be refocused. A flattened cornea is ideal for nearsighted, while a steep cornea is best for people who are farsighted.

The risks of LASIK are worth mention. Some commonly reported complications associated with this procedure: under-correction of vision, large pupils, dry eyes, over-correction of vision, halos and starbursts from bright lighting, floaters and double vision. Less frequent complications include development of choroidal neovascularization, uveitis and retinal detachment.

LASIK eye surgery is a type of medical procedure that is done to correct the vision of the eyes. It is primarily used on people who suffer with nearsightedness, astigmatism or farsightedness. People should research the procedure before having it done.




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