Introduction

LASIK eye surgery is a popular procedure that helps people see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. Many people choose LASIK eye surgery to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. In this blog, you will learn about how LASIK works, its benefits, risks, and what you can expect before and after the procedure.

How LASIK Works

LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. During LASIK eye surgery, a doctor uses a special laser to reshape the cornea, which is the clear front part of your eye. Because the cornea helps focus light, changing its shape can improve your vision. Most people notice better vision soon after the procedure. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, LASIK is safe and effective for many adults.

Eligibility Criteria

Not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. However, you may be eligible if you:

Are at least 18 years old

Have healthy eyes with no major diseases

Have a stable vision prescription for at least one year

Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not have very thin corneas

Still, your eye doctor will check your eyes and health history before recommending LASIK.

Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery

Many people choose LASIK because it offers several benefits. For example, you may:

See clearly without glasses or contacts

Enjoy fast results, often within a day

Experience little or no pain during the procedure

Return to normal activities quickly

Save money over time on eyewear

In addition, most people are satisfied with their results. The World Health Organization notes that vision correction can improve quality of life.

Risks and Potential Side Effects

Although LASIK eye surgery is safe for most people, there are some risks and side effects. For instance, you may notice:

Dry eyes for a few weeks or months

Glare, halos, or double vision at night

Temporary discomfort or itching

Rarely, infection or vision loss

However, most side effects are mild and go away with time. It is important to talk to your doctor about LASIK risks before deciding.

The LASIK Procedure: Step-by-Step

Knowing what to expect can help you feel calm. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to the LASIK procedure:

Your eyes are numbed with special drops.

The doctor creates a thin flap in your cornea.

A laser reshapes the cornea to correct your vision.

The flap is placed back in position.

You rest for a short time before going home.

Usually, the whole process takes less than 30 minutes for both eyes.

Recovery and Aftercare Tips

After LASIK eye surgery, you will need to take care of your eyes. For a smooth recovery, follow these tips:

Rest your eyes for the first day

Use eye drops as prescribed

Avoid rubbing your eyes

Stay away from swimming pools for at least two weeks

Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes

Attend all follow-up visits with your doctor

Most people return to work and normal life within a few days. However, always follow your doctor’s advice for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LASIK eye surgery painful? No, most people feel only mild pressure or discomfort during the procedure.

How soon will I see results? Many people notice better vision within 24 hours.

Can LASIK fix all vision problems? LASIK works for many, but not all, types of vision issues. Your doctor will let you know if it is right for you.

Are the results permanent? For most people, results last many years. However, vision can change with age.

What if I am not a candidate? Your doctor can suggest other vision correction options.

Conclusion

LASIK eye surgery can help you see clearly and enjoy life without glasses or contact lenses. However, it’s important to understand the benefits, possible risks, and recovery process before making a decision.

Consult a qualified ophthalmologist at Dixit Netra Chikitsalaya for personalized advice on LASIK eye surgery and to find out if it’s the right option for you.