What is LASIK?
The cornea is the front part of the eye which focuses light to create images on the retina.
Refractive errors – nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism – distort these images. In LASIK surgery, an Excimer laser utilizes precise pulses to reshape the cornea after another laser cuts and lifts a flap in the cornea to expose the middle section of the cornea. LASIK (laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis) has been FDA approved since the 1990s, and works best with nearsighted individuals.
How we co-manage LASIK
Eye surgery is a specialty performed by selected ophthalmologists. As optometrists, Today’s Vision doctors can help determine a patient’s candidacy for LASIK, perform specialized pre-tests, provide follow-up care and co-manage the LASIK patient. More important, Today’s Vision doctors have evaluated eye surgeons and developed relationships with those who provide the actual surgeries. Additionally, Today’s Vision doctors have developed referrals with eye surgeons who perform intraocular lens (IOL) replacement surgery and cataract surgery.
Am I a candidate for LASIK?
Your Today’s Vision doctor will evaluate your candidacy for LASIK. However, a few criteria include: 1) stable vision for one year, 2) 18 years or older, 3) free from eye diseases such as keratoconus, glaucoma, cataracts, corneal disease and herpes, 4) not pregnant, 5) not suffering from continuous dry eye, 6) no eye problems such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (muscle imbalance), and 7) no eye injury or infections. Additionally, candidates must have sufficient corneal tissue.
Here at River Oaks Vision, we are proud to offer LASIK surgery.
LASIK stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis and is a popular surgery to correct vision problems. LASIK can help people who are nearsighted or farsighted as well those who have astigmatism.
LASIK works by reshaping the cornea with a laser, which allows light to be focused onto the retina. A laser is used to create a small flap is in the cornea, which is peeled back so another laser can reshape the cornea. The flap is then returned to its original position, and the surgery is complete.
LASIK is becoming quite popular because it works so well. It has a high success rate. The procedure itself is quick, taking only about ten minutes. Most patients require only local anesthetics, which is given in eye-drop form.
The procedure is pretty painless, and you won’t have to deal with stitches or bandages. Most people see a difference in their vision right away. If needed, we can make minor adjustments in the future.
Every surgery has risks, so it is important to discuss the surgery, side effects, and recovery with your eye doctor so you can make an informed decision about whether or not the procedure is right for you.
If you have any questions or would like to set up a consult, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (713) 640-2020.