Some people are simply not comfortable wearing glasses or contacts. If you are one of those people, you have probably considered laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis – or LASIK, as it’s commonly known. However, this corrective surgery is not the right option for every person with vision problems.
Before considering LASIK, it is important to consider the risks and rewards of the surgery. Primarily, it must be understood that LASIK surgery is only used to correct refractive errors in the cornea and will not benefit those with other sight-related conditions.
What is LASIK?
The surgery is performed on the cornea, whereby the surgeon, with the use of laser technology, manipulates the shape of the cornea. The first part of the procedure involves the creation of a flap, which allows the surgeon to make corrections to refractive errors.
This type of surgery is not recommended for all patients, so it is important to have your vision fully tested to determine if you are a viable candidate. There are a number of conditions which determine whether LASIK is right for you, which your eye specialist will discuss with you during your assessment.
Qualifying Conditions
Near-sightedness, or myopia, may make you a suitable candidate for LASIK. However, far-sightedness is another condition which can be corrected with LASIK surgery. Blurred vision, caused by astigmatism, is also commonly treated through LASIK surgery.
In each case, it is vitally important that your eye specialist performs a thorough examination before considering LASIK surgery. In many cases, the surgery can cause additional problems with vision if it is not the correct option for you.
Risks of LASIK Surgery
There are risks with LASIK surgery, due in part to the complexity of the human eye. Under- or over-correction can occur, making your vision worse than before surgery. Some patients have also reported problems with vision at night, double vision, and the development of chronic dry eye.
Due to the risks involved with LASIK surgery, it is important to ensure that you are a suitable candidate. Your eye specialist will perform an assessment and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Be sure to consider all the factors before choosing LASIK surgery, to improve your chances of getting results that will help improve your vision.
