If you are frustrated with wearing glasses or contact lenses to correct your vision, you may be considering laser vision correction. There are various different techniques for laser vision correction, but LASIK is by far the most popular. It is estimated that as many as 10 million adults in the U.S. have already undergone LASIK and the treatment continues to be in-demand today.

LASIK or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis is an innovative way of permanently altering your vision so that you have little or no reliance on prescription vision aids. It does this by altering the shape of the cornea so that light is then refracted correctly by it and passes through to the hit the retina as directly as possible. This means that the light signals intercepted by the retina are correctly interpreted by the brain and your vision appears much more clearly.

Although some people have concerns about undergoing laser treatment on their eyes, LASIK is extremely safe with minimal risk of side effects. The entire, completely painless process takes just a few minutes per eye and most patients can return to work within 48 hours of their treatment.

 

What makes someone a good candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery?

LASIK laser eye surgery is an excellent, permanent way to correct the vision of the majority of patients with refractive vision errors. However, you will need to have your candidacy assessed before you can undergo treatment. This process will involve undertaking an evaluation of your vision and your ocular health to check that you are suitable for the procedure. Typically, patients who are considered to be a good candidate for LASIK laser vision correction:

- Are at least 18 years old

- Have had stable vision with no prescription changes for at least the last 12 months

- Have a prescription that falls between specific parameters which will be explained to you by your LASIK surgeon

- Have no prior history of corneal diseases

- Have no significant medical or diagnosed eye problems, for example, glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy which could affect the success of the procedure

- Are not pregnant or nursing at that time

- Has reasonable expectations for the outcome of their treatment

This last point is particularly important. Many patients will be able to see clearly without any need for glasses or contact lenses following their LASIK surgery. However, this isn’t guaranteed, and some patients may find that they still need to use prescription vision aids at some point, such as when driving at night which requires significantly more focus.

If you would like more information about LASIK laser eye surgery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to have your candidacy for the treatment assessed, please get in touch with our eye associates today.