LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is laser eye surgery that can treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. LASIK can reduce or eliminate a patient’s need for contact lenses or eyeglasses.
The skilled team at Vista Eye Specialists includes Binoy R. Jani, M.D. Dr. Jani is a board-certified ophthalmologist and cornea/laser vision correction specialist. Here, he answers three popular LASIK questions.
1. Are results permanent?
One of the most common questions asked at Vista Eye Specialists is whether the results from LASIK are permanent. The answer to the question is a bit more complicated than just a simple yes or no.
The effects of the LASIK procedure are permanent. This means that any changes made to the cornea during LASIK are permanent. However, patients should keep in mind that LASIK is a corrective procedure, not a preventative procedure. This means that while LASIK can correct vision problems, it cannot prevent future changes to the eye and vision. That is why regular eye exams are so important.
2. Can LASIK fix astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a very common type of refractive error that can cause blurred vision, headaches, eye strain and eye discomfort. It is caused by the eye’s irregularly shaped cornea (the front surface of the eye) or lens.
The good news is that the LASIK procedure can fix astigmatism in most patients. LASIK can be used to reshape the cornea, so it is more symmetrical. This corrects the astigmatism and improves vision.
There are different types of astigmatism and not all respond to LASIK. The only way to know if LASIK can fix your astigmatism is to schedule an eye exam.
3. How does LASIK work?
During LASIK, the eye surgeon creates a flap in the cornea, much like a page of a book. The cornea’s curvature is then reshaped using a laser. How the cornea is reshaped depends on the patient’s vision issue. Once the cornea is reshaped, it will allow the eye to better focus light. This results in clearer vision for the patient.
LASIK is a very quick and effective outpatient procedure. The procedure takes about 10 minutes per eye, and after a short observation period, the patient goes home. Most people take one to two days to recover after LASIK. However, patients may have to avoid certain activities for a few weeks following surgery to reduce the chance of trauma to the healing eyes. The majority of LASIK patients see 20/20 or better after surgery.
Contact Vista Eye Specialists To Learn if LASIK Is Right for You
The only way to know if LASIK is right for you is by contacting our experienced eye doctors in Fredericksburg and Culpeper, Va. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Vista Eye Specialists today.
