The Science Behind LASIK Surgery: How Does It Work?

All you need to know before Lasik

Clear vision is not only desired but a necessity. Thanks to a groundbreaking technology called LASIK, millions of people worldwide have turned this dream into a reality.

Keep reading to know how LASIK eye surgery can help with clear, natural vision without the hassle of corrective lenses.

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular surgical procedure for correcting refractive vision problems.

 

LASIK laser eye surgery can effectively address and correct the following vision problems:

  • Nearsightedness, also called myopia
  • Farsightedness, also called hyperopia
  • Astigmatism

 

LASIK eye surgery aims to reduce or eliminate the dependence on glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.

What is the Age Limit for LASIK Surgery?

The stability of your current prescription is a crucial factor in determining whether LASIK surgery is suitable for you.

LASIK is typically not recommended for individuals under 18, as their eyes are still developing, and their prescriptions may change.

On the other hand, there isn’t a strict upper age limit for LASIK surgery. 

As long as you are in good overall health and your eyes meet the candidacy criteria, there is no reason why an older individual can’t undergo LASIK eye surgery.

How Does LASIK Eye Surgery Work?

LASIK eye surgery is an effective procedure for correcting refractive vision problems. This is how this laser eye surgery procedure is done:

      During the Procedure

  • First, anaesthetic eye drops are applied to ensure you don’t feel pain and discomfort during the procedure. Instruments are used to hold your eyelids open.
  • A Microkeratome or cutting laser is used to cut a small hinged flap away from the front of your eye. This allows the eye surgeon to access the underlying corneal tissue for reshaping.
  • LASIK uses an eye laser to precisely adjust the focusing power to achieve the ideal vision correction for your eyes.
  • If your prescription is a minus, i.e., nearsightedness, the eye laser flattens your cornea. 
  • If your prescription has a plus, i.e. farsightedness, the eye laser makes your cornea more curved and steeper. 
  • If you have astigmatism, this laser eye procedure smoothens your irregular cornea into a more normal shape.
  • After the cornea has been reshaped to the desired prescription, the surgeon carefully repositions the corneal flap. The flap adheres naturally without the need for stitches. 

       

      Recovery

  • It is common to experience mild discomfort, pain, itchiness or a gritty sensation in your eyes during the first few hours or days. You may have blurred vision, which improves within a few hours. 
  • You will be prescribed pain medicine or eye drops to relieve pain and discomfort after the procedure. You might be advised to wear an eye shield at night until your eye heals.

What are the Side Effects Associated With LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK eye surgery is generally considered safe and effective. However, it has potential risks and side effects like any surgical procedure.

 Some of the LASIK laser eye surgery side effects are:

  • Dry eyes
  • Pain or Discomfort
  • Glare, halos and double vision
  • Under correction or Overcorrection, leading to residual nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
  • Flap Complications, such as flap dislocation, wrinkles, or debris getting under the flap
  • Vision loss

It’s important to note that the likelihood of experiencing these laser eye surgery risks and complications is relatively very low, and most the LASIK patients achieve improved vision without significant issues. 

When is LASIK Not Recommended?

LASIK eye laser surgery is typically considered safe, but it may not be recommended if you:

  • Have very large pupils or thin corneas.
  • Have severe nearsightedness.
  • Have a good overall vision.
  • Have an unstable vision.
  • Have eye diseases such as keratoconus, cataracts, etc.
  • Participate in contact sports or activities which may involve blows to the face.
  • Have age-related eye changes or conditions that cause vision to be less clear.

Ultimately, the decision regarding LASIK suitability should be made in consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist. Alternative vision correction methods may be recommended if LASIK eye surgery is not deemed appropriate.

Visit Suruchi Eye Hospital for LASIK Surgery

Looking for an expert opinion on your Lasik Surgery needs, visit Suruchi Eye Hospital & Lasik Centre today.  

Our experienced eye specialist Dr Rajesh Kapoor will provide personalized attention from start to finish. Our commitment to ensuring patient satisfaction has earned us a reputation as one of the best eye hospitals in the region.

So, if you’re ready to take the first step towards clearer vision without glasses or contacts, consider visiting Suruchi Eye Hospital today!

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