LASIK which stands for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis is a popular procedure when it comes to correcting vision problems such as astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness. Before you consider undergoing this procedure, you have to assess the benefits and the risks so that you can make an informed decision.
The main reason to undergo LASIK surgery is to improve vision
The laser technology will reshape the cornea so that refractive errors can be corrected. This way, you don’t need to wear contact lenses or glasses any longer. Many patients tend to achieve better vision and sometimes even 20/20 vision after the surgery which will give them freedom from corrective eyewear. This is an outpatient procedure and it takes about 30 minutes to perform. There is minimal discomfort during and afterwards and many patients are able to return to their normal activities after a day or two. Unlike other surgical procedures, eye surgery for vision will not need any stitches or bandages. There is a significant improvement in vision that many patients tend to experience immediately after the surgery. With LASIK, you can have long lasting results and clear vision. There can be minor changes to your vision over time in some cases but the majority of patients tend to have stable vision after the procedure. You can enjoy the benefits of this without having to make frequent adjustments to corrective eyewear from time to time.
There is great convenience provided to patients with this procedure
The need for glasses or contact lenses can be reduced or eliminated completely. You no longer have to worry about cleaning or maintaining contact lenses or being limited by having to wear glasses during certain activities. Your depth perception and peripheral vision can also be imposed with LASIK and this can make activities like sports, driving, outdoor recreation safer. However, there are certain risks to consider as well when you go into this procedure. The most common side effect is dry eye syndrome. This will lead to blurred vision, irritation and discomfort. This is a condition that happens when your eye doesn’t produce enough tears. And this will not be sufficient to keep the eye surface lubricated. These symptoms tend to be quite temporary and you can use lubricating eye drops to manage it. But some patients can have chronic dryness that needs ongoing treatment.
Many patients tend to have excellent results from LASIK
But some tend to have fluctuations in their vision after the surgery. There can be difficulty seeing clearly at certain distances or when you are under certain lighting conditions. These can be quite temporary and you will find that these tend to resolve as your eyes heal. But some patients will need additional treatments to improve their vision. Some patients will have visual disturbances such as halos, glare or starbursts around lights which are more prominent at night. These can be temporary symptoms but it can affect your vision quality under low light conditions.
