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How Is Lasik Eye Surgery Done: What You Need To Know
Introduction and Preparation for LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery, a type of refractive eye surgery, stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is designed to correct vision problems.
Preparation begins with a pre-surgery eye exam to assess suitability for LASIK. During this evaluation, conditions such as dry eyes or corneal thickness are examined.
In the weeks leading up to the procedure, lifestyle adjustments may be necessary. For instance:
- Contact lenses are often discontinued two weeks before surgery since they can reshape the cornea and potentially affect the surgery's outcome.
- Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid creams, lotions, and makeup 24 hours prior to surgery due to the risk of debris along the lashes, which could lead to infection.
Proper preparation is a key component in the process leading to the outcome of the surgery.
LASIK Procedure Basics and Use of Laser
The LASIK procedure reshapes the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This adjustment aids in the correct focusing of light on the retina, a layer at the back of the eye that transmits images to the brain.
The first step in LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea. A microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser is used for this purpose, depending on the patient's specific condition and the surgeon's judgement.
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Once the flap is created, it is lifted to reveal the underlying corneal tissue. At this stage, an excimer laser is employed to remove some of the corneal tissue based on the patient's prescription data.
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After the necessary adjustments are made, the flap is repositioned to its original location, where it adheres naturally without the need for stitches.
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Flap Creation and Corneal Adjustments in LASIK
LASIK surgery begins with flap creation. A device, either a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser, is used to cut a thin flap in the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. This flap is then gently lifted, allowing access to the cornea underneath.
The procedure continues with corneal adjustments. An excimer laser, emitting cool ultraviolet light, removes small pieces from the cornea's middle layer (stroma) to reshape it. This adjustment aims to ensure that light entering the eye is focused onto the retina, potentially enhancing vision clarity.
In summary:
- Flap creation involves cutting and lifting a thin layer.
- Corneal adjustment reshapes the middle layer using a laser.
Following these steps, the flap is repositioned over the cornea, where it heals naturally, stitches being unnecessary. LASIK surgery is noted for its high success rates, with many individuals experiencing improved vision shortly after the procedure.
Final Steps and Post-Procedure Healing Process of LASIK
The LASIK procedure concludes with the surgeon repositioning the flap on the cornea, serving as a natural bandage, thus eliminating the need for stitches. The operation typically lasts about 10 to 15 minutes per eye.
Following the surgery, some discomfort or mild pain may be present. It is common for patients to report a sensation of something in their eye. Protective shields may be provided for use during sleep, and antibiotic drops may be utilized.
- Initially, vision might be blurry but is expected to clear up within a few days.
- The complete healing process generally spans from one to three months after LASIK surgery.
- It is advisable to avoid strenuous activities that might impact the eyes during this period.
- Regular follow-ups are beneficial for optimal recovery.
Healing times and the return to full visual acuity vary among individuals following LASIK surgery.
Clinical Trials and Understanding Corrected Vision Needs in Lasik Eye Surgery
Clinical trials are essential in the development and improvement of Lasik eye surgery, which stands for "Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis." This procedure corrects vision by reshaping the cornea, and clinical trials evaluate new methods to ensure they are safe and effective.
There are two primary conditions treated with Lasik: myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness).
- Myopia is a condition where the eye is too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina.
- On the other hand, hyperopia occurs when the eye is too short, with light focusing behind the retina.
Participation in clinical trials typically involves meeting specific eligibility criteria related to these conditions.