LASIK...Is It Right For You?

If you have been wearing spectacles or contact lenses for a long time, and dream of clear vision, then Lasik Surgery could well be your answer. Today an increasing number of people with poor eyesight are turning to this surgery to correct their vision.

What is LASIK?

LASIK is an acronym for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. The goal of the surgery is to alter shape of the cornea, which is the transparent covering on the eye. The process involves the use of a cool "excimer" laser. An instrument called a microkeratome is used to create a flap on the front surface of the cornea to reveal the stroma. This mid-section of the cornea is the portion of the eye which is reshaped with the excimer laser. This cool laser painlessly fixes the nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism that causes poor vision.

The potential risks involved

As part of a LASIK evaluation by your surgeon, you will learn about the risks of surgery. Severe risks that can damage your vision are very rare. By far, the most common problem is under- or over-correction, both of which are almost always correctable with more surgery.

Is it right for you?

Not every patient is a candidate for this procedure. A complete eye exam should be performed by your LASIK surgeon to ensure that you are a candidate for surgery. If you are not a candidate for LASIK, then alternatives such as the Implantable Contact Lens may be discussed. Patients who cannot have LASIK would be people with thin corneas, dry eyes, or other eye diseases.

Just as importantly, patients need to discuss their goals for surgery, and have a clear understanding of the risks and benefits of surgery. These questions MUST be answered by your LASIK surgeon before you proceed with surgery.