The technical name for LASIK surgery is laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis. It is a type of surgery performed to improve specific vision problems. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, LASIK surgery is approved for adults over the age of 18 with certain vision problems.
Facts
According to the Food and Drug Administration, the shape of the cornea in the eye can cause an image to look blurred and out of focus. This is referred to as a refractory error. LASIK surgery is considered a refractory eye surgery because it changes the shape of the cornea. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is the most common type of refractory eye surgery performed.
Indications
Only certain eye conditions are treated with LASIK surgery. They include nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. People who are nearsighted cannot see objects clearly when they are far away. Individuals who are farsighted have trouble with images that are close. An astigmatism can cause objects both close and distant to look blurred or out of focus.
Procedure
According to the Food and Drug Administration, the procedure is usually completed in about 30 minutes. Numbing eye drops will be placed into the eyes to reduce discomfort during the procedure. The eye will be held open with a special device. Some people may also need medication to help them relax. A flap is cut in the front of the eye and pulled back to allow the surgeon to see the cornea. Depending on the condition being treated, a specific part of the cornea will be reshaped using a laser. The flap is then put back in place. Stitches are not needed.
Complications
Complications with LASIK surgery can include trouble seeing at night and blurred vision. Dry eyes are a frequent complication and may last several months. Although not common, infection is also a possibility. If the cornea was not reshaped enough, under-correction may be a result. Sometimes a second surgery will be needed to correct problems. Although the procedure may not be successful in all cases, according to the Mayo Clinic, about 80 percent of people who have LASIK surgery don't need their contact lenses or glasses anymore.
Recovery
Immediately after the procedure, blurred vision and itchy eyes are common. Eyedrops and pain medication will be prescribed. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a follow-up visit with the surgeon within 48 hours of the surgery to check how the eye is healing. Although it's essential to follow your doctor's recommendations, usually eye makeup should be avoided for a few weeks while the eye heals. A doctor may also recommend avoiding contact sports for a few weeks after surgery.
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