LASIK eye surgery can be life-changing for those with mild to moderate vision problems. This revolutionary surgery can give you the power to see clearly without the need for irritating contact lenses or thick glasses. But the thought of having a procedure done on your eyes makes many people wary of the LASIK process. Knowing what to expect regarding the feeling and sensation of LASIK can best prepare you to confidently enter this procedure. With LASIK at Campus Eye Group in Hamilton, NJ, you will never misplace your glasses again and will see life with your own eyes again.
What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It’s a complicated medical term for a procedure that reshapes the cornea of the eye. The cornea is the clear window in front of the eye where light first enters on its way to the retina at the back of the eye. The retina then sends light signals to the brain, which in turn interprets them into the images we see.
Understanding Light Refraction Error
To really understand why LASIK works to restore normal vision, you must first understand what light refraction error is. Light refraction errors occur when the shape of the eyeball is flawed. This flaw causes light to focus incorrectly on the retina. In order for normal vision to occur, light must land precisely on the correct area of the retina. If light falls short of it, myopia or nearsightedness is the result. If the light falls behind the retina, hyperopia or farsightedness will occur.
What Is the LASIK Procedure Like?
Only your eye care professional can tell you if you’re a good candidate for LASIK or not. If you are, the procedure itself can generally completed in less than 30 minutes. After you’re comfortably seated in a reclining chair, your LASIK surgeon will place numbing drops into your eye. These drops will prevent any pain as the doctor creates a tiny flap on the cornea and works with a specially programmed laser to reshape your cornea. You may feel pressure but not pain. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and fast the LASIK procedure is.
After LASIK
Most patients recover quickly from the LASIK procedure. After a few hours at home, the numbing drops will wear off and there may be some mild discomfort at that time. Usually, over-the-counter pain medication is sufficient. There may also be some watering of the eyes and sensitivity to light, but any severe pain should be reported to your LASIK surgeon immediately. You can also try closing your eyes and resting for a while to ease any discomfort. Be sure to follow all post-surgery instructions exactly and attend your follow-up visits. The surgical flap generally heals quickly.
You can expect your vision to improve dramatically within days of your procedure, but everyone is different. It may take a little longer for some patients.
If you’re very anxious about LASIK, let your eye doctor know. They deal with surgical fears all the time and will have some suggestions to help you.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re interested in LASIK and the freedom from glasses and contact lenses it offers, Reach out to Campus Eye Group in Hamilton, NJ. Our large team of dedicated eye doctors, surgeons, and specialists is here to guide you to optimal health, comfort, and vision with the LASIK procedure. Head to our website to schedule a consultation by filling out an online contact form.
