LASIK eye surgery is a common eye surgery to cure vision problems. The surgery reshapes the cornea and helps in focusing of the light on the retina. The following article provides information about the how this surgery is performed and its recovery process.
LASIK is the acronym for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, which is a very common surgery performed to correct vision problems. The reason why this surgery is popular is because the recovery time is low, and the procedure is relatively painless as well. In fact, patients are alllowed to go home the next day.
This form of surgery is not an entirely new procedure. It has been used for about 30 years now. Earlier, the dissection of the cornea was done manually, and it required an extremely skilled surgeon to perform it. Since it was a difficult procedure and not many surgeons were equipped to perform it, the surgery was not very popular. Later, the modern methods which use laser were developed, and the LASIK surgery was re-invented as a highly successful and stress-free surgery.
LASIK Surgery Process
The surgery involves creating a thin and circular flap in the cornea with the help of an instrument called microkeratome or by using laser. The hinged flap is then folded back out of the way, and some amount of corneal tissue is removed from underneath the flap. To reshape the cornea, an ultraviolet light beam is directed on the eye. Once the cornea is reshaped correctly, it starts functioning better by focusing light on the retina, this ensures a better and clearer vision. To cover the part from where the corneal tissue was removed, the flap is replaced in those positions.
The surgery is beneficial for both farsighted as well as nearsighted people. Farsighted people can get a steeper cornea, while nearsighted people can flatten their steep cornea. With the help of lasers, an abnormally-shaped cornea can be bought back to its original shape, which can treat astigmatism as well.
Recovery Process
Immediately After the Operation
Patients are advised to rest for a short period after the surgery. They are allowed to go home the same day as the surgery. However, on the first day doctors provide the patients with an eye shield to protect the eyes. Six hours after the operation, some patients may experience irritation in their eyes, and pain revilers may be prescribed to relieve the pain. Watery eyes, blurry vision, and itching in the eyes are common occurrences. Also, patients are advised not to rub their eyes under any circumstance, as it may affect the corneal flap.
Resuming Work and Rest
Most patients feel that they can resume work next day, but ideally it should be avoided. It is better to rest for one week, and doctors may also advise against any strenuous activities during this period. Playing heavy contact sports must be avoided for a month, so that the eyes are protected from getting hurt.
Eye Check-up
The first eye check-up is done within the first couple of days after surgery. This check-up is necessary to remove the eye patch and examine the eyes for proper vision. Doctors may also prescribe certain eye drops to prevent any swelling or infection in the eyes. Contact lenses should be avoided even if vision is hazy.
Long-term Caring
The normal recovery period is of six months. It does not mean that the patient cannot work for this period, however, periodic eye examination must be done to monitor the progress of the healing process. Regular check-ups as scheduled by the doctor should be followed by the patient.
A LASIK surgery is effective to help people get rid of any vision disability. The recovery process is quick and simple which makes it an even more popular choice in patients. However, it should be noted that the surgery does not rule out the possibility of a person needing old-age reading glasses.
