How laser eye surgery works is generally a matter too complicated for a simple- minded Jane or Joe to understand. On the other hand, if you truly want to somehow get a gist and idea on how laser eye surgery works, the following information explains this complex surgical procedure in the simplest way possible. Read on and find out how the whole thing works. After all, it would be very reassuring indeed to somehow gain a clear understanding about laser eye surgery before consenting to undergo such a scary procedure.
What is Laser Eye Surgery or LASIK
LASIK (or laser in situ keratomileusis) is a medical procedure utilizing advance technology laser, called an excimer laser, to improve the general performance of eyes afflicted with certain correctable defects. A laser being pointed through your eyes may seem intimidating and thought-provoking. However, it would ease up your mind to know that this delicate procedure is computer-aided, assuring you of accuracy and precision. In addition to that, the whole procedure will take up only five to ten minutes of your time. In general, it is also painless.
A few eye problems laser eye surgery can correct are refractive defects such as astigmatism, myopia or nearsightedness, and hyperopia or farsightedness. It is also popularly known for having improved overall vision in patients; many have attested to no longer needing corrective eye glasses or contact lenses after the procedure.
How Laser Eye Surgery Works in Detail
Here is a glimpse and general idea on how laser eye surgery works in detail, so you’d know what awaits you in the clinic.
Only a highly trained and specialized eye surgeon should perform a laser eye surgery. With the use of a microkeratome, he will first fashion a precisely measured corneal flap. He will then steadily and carefully pull back this flap and uncover the corneal tissue underneath. The computer-guided excimer laser then contours the cornea in a pre-specified outline that is dependent upon each individual patient’s eye correction problem. Specifically, if you are farsighted, your cornea will be reshaped to become steeper; if you are nearsighted, your cornea will be flattened. After the laser does its job, the corneal flap will then be carefully returned to its original position. Suturing is not a necessity so don’t worry.
Pros and Cons of Laser Eye Surgery
By knowing how eye surgery works, as well as knowing the advantages and risks associated with it, you should be able to make a final decision that is well thought of.
While laser eye surgery can correct vision problems so you won’t need eye glasses or contact lenses, it also has its drawbacks. There have been cases wherein patients still required glasses and lenses after surgery, showing that it is not 100% effective. Over-correction or under-correction may take place, and sometimes good eye results are only temporary. Increased visual irregularities, and even blindness, have also been noted in very rare cases.
On the other hand, in spite of known risks to laser eye surgery, careful patient screening and handling by a well-seasoned and level-headed eye surgeon may reap good effects after the procedure. For further inquiries on the matter, do ask your surgeon about how laser eye surgery works.