How Effective is LASIK Laser Surgery?

There is no doubt that LASIK eye surgery is a highly successful and sought-after method for the treatment of refractive errors. But is the procedure truly worth it, and is it safe? Let's dive into the answers to these questions and uncover more information about LASIK eye surgery.

What is LASIK?

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) involves a laser reshaping of the eye's cornea. This laser eye treatment aims to correct refractive errors to improve vision. Eye LASIK surgery may reduce the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Sometimes, it may even allow us to do without them entirely.

How Is LASIK Done? 

Eye LASIK is done on an outpatient basis and typically takes less than 30 minutes per eye. The laser makes a small flap in the cornea and then reshapes the underlying tissue to change how light enters the eye. The flap is then replaced and begins to heal, which results in improved vision. 

Why Is It Done? 

LASIK eye surgery has several advantages, including:

• Improved vision. With laser eye treatment using LASIK, correcting refractive errors is possible. Eye disorders, such as nearsightedness, and farsightedness, can be fixed. It works well in treating astigmatism and blurry or distorted vision too. 

• Reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Many people choose eye LASIK surgery because it can significantly reduce or even eliminate their need for corrective lenses.

• Improved quality of life. LASIK eye surgery can improve the quality of life by allowing people to do things they love without the hassle of glasses or contacts.

• Correct age-related changes in vision. As we age, our eyesight can deteriorate, and LASIK eye surgery can help correct these changes.

• Improved visual outcomes for particular professions or activities. Athletes, pilots, and other professionals who rely on clear vision may choose LASIK eye surgery to enhance their visual outcomes.

• Develop confidence and self-esteem. Many people feel self-conscious about wearing glasses or contacts. LASIK can help boost confidence and self-esteem by giving them better vision and a more natural appearance.

• Save money in the long run. While LASIK is an investment, it can save money in the long run by reducing or eliminating the need for glasses, contacts, and associated costs.

How Effective is LASIK Eye Surgery 

LASIK is a highly effective procedure, with a success rate of 96% or higher. This means that 96% of patients with LASIK see a significant improvement in their vision. However, it's important to note that LASIK may not be the best option for everyone. It's essential to consult with a qualified LASIK eye doctor to determine if LASIK is right for you.

Who Can Undergo Lasik Surgery Successfully?

Specific criteria must be met to qualify for LASIK eye surgery. A few of these are:

• Patients must be 18 years or older, but those over 21 with more stable vision are preferred. 
• You have a stable vision prescription. 
• The patient's refractive error must be treatable with LASIK. 
• You are within certain limits in terms of your eye prescription.
• You're in good overall health.

However, some individuals may not be suitable candidates for LASIK. These include individuals with:

• A fluctuating refractive error
• Extreme levels of myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism
• Severe dry eyes
• Thin or unhealthy corneas
• Corneal scars or diseases
• Keratoconus
• Advanced glaucoma
• Cataracts affecting vision
• A history of certain eye infections
• Uncontrolled diabetes

Also, LASIK is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women as vision changes may occur during pregnancy.

To learn more, read Laser In Situ Keratomileusis.

Is Lasik Worth It?

One of the most common questions is, "Is LASIK worth it?" The answer is it depends on the individual. Like any medical procedure, weighing the potential benefits and risks is essential before deciding if it's the right choice for you.

Benefits of LASIK

For most patients, LASIK is worth it. One of the main benefits of LASIK is that it can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Many people with LASIK report improved vision and increased freedom and convenience in their daily lives. The recovery time is usually short. Many patients experience improvement in their vision the next day, and most return to normal activities within a day or two.

Is Laser Eye Surgery Safe?

You might ask, "is laser eye surgery safe?" Fortunately, numerous studies support this claim. One of the critical advantages of LASIK is that it is considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced LASIK eye doctor. Based on research risk of complications is less than 1% during a procedure. and most reported complications are short-term. Due to its safety profile, LASIK eye surgery has been FDA-approved since 1995. 

Risks of LASIK 

Although losing vision as a complication of LASIK surgery is uncommon, temporary side effects such as dry eyes and visual disturbances are more frequent. However, these symptoms typically improve after a few weeks or months, and very few people find them a long-term concern.

• Dry eyes. After LASIK surgery, your eyes may feel dry for the first six months as they heal. Your LASIK eye doctor may recommend using eye drops. Another procedure may be required for severely dry eyes to get plugs placed in your tear ducts to stop tears from draining away.

• Double vision, halos, and glare. After LASIK, you may have trouble seeing at night and have symptoms like glare, halos, or double vision, which usually go away in a few days or weeks. Still, in some cases, it can become a long-term problem.

• Undercorrections. If LASIK surgery does not remove enough tissue from the eye, it may result in undercorrections and less clear vision. This is more common for nearsighted people who may require enhancement surgery within a year to remove more tissue.

• Overcorrections. In some cases, too much tissue can be removed by the laser. Unfortunately, correcting overcorrections may be more challenging than correcting undercorrections.

• Astigmatism. Uneven tissue removal during LASIK surgery can lead to the development of astigmatism, which may require additional surgery, glasses, or contact lenses to correct.

• Vision loss or changes. Surgical complications can sometimes result in vision loss. Additionally, some people may not see as sharply or clearly as before.

What Should You Do Before LASIK Eye Surgery?

Before undergoing LASIK surgery, it's essential to take some steps to prepare:

• Be aware of the cost. LASIK is considered an elective surgery, so most insurance companies won't cover the cost, so be prepared to pay out-of-pocket.

• Make transportation arrangements. Arrangements should be made for a ride home after surgery, as you may still feel the effects of your medicines, and your vision may be blurry.

• Avoid using eye makeup. In the days leading up to surgery, do not use eye makeup, cream, perfumes, or lotions, and clean your eyelashes frequently to minimize infection risks.

Take the First Step Towards Clear Vision 

Tired of using eyeglasses and contact lenses? Want to live a hassle-free life? We are the right eye doctor for you if you're looking for "eye doctors near me" in Waxahachie, Texas! Texas Eye and Cataract offers the best eye services to help correct your vision in Texas. Our team of eye care professionals at Texas Eye and Cataract provides a multitude of eye care services with state-of-the-art technology to provide the best treatment you deserve for your eye problems. 

At Texas Eye and Cataract, you are in good hands.