LASIK Eye Surgery: Cost, Procedure, Benefits And Cost

LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a common operation that can correct eyesight. It can be performed on nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. It is one of several vision correction surgeries that work by reshaping your cornea so that light concentrates on the retina at the back of your eye. This reshaping results in the correction of any vision problems that you have.

Contact Lenses Vs. LASIK Eye Surgery

To make it easy for you to decide what would be a better option for you, we have listed a comparison between contact lenses and LASIK laser eye surgery below:

Safety: Most people find contact lenses and LASIK eye surgery to be safe.
Side effects: An eye infection is the most probable danger of wearing contact lenses. For laser eye surgery, the risks can be dry eyes and visual disturbances like halos in rare cases.
Effectiveness: Both LASIK and contact lenses offer good visual quality. Some LASIK patients may still need glasses for specialized tasks such as reading or driving at night. In comparison, contact lens users' vision changes may usually be managed by simply altering the lens prescription.
Cost: The cost of bifocal contact lenses that correct astigmatism or presbyopia may be more significant. When calculating the expense, bear in consideration the amount you may spend on contact lenses over time.

Who Performs LASIK Surgery?

A qualified eye surgeon or ophthalmologist performs LASIK surgery. Ophthalmologists who perform LASIK surgery may sometimes be referred to as LASIK surgeons.

Types of LASIK Eye Surgery

The three main types of refractive errors for which LASIK eye surgery is done. They are as follows:

For Myopia: Myopia or nearsightedness is when you can not see far away things.
For Hyperopia: Hyperopia or farsightedness is when you can not see things near you.
For Astigmatism: It is blurry vision caused due to the shape of your eye.

Preparations Before LASIK Eye Surgery

Your doctor will advise you to make preparations according to your condition. However, some of the common steps before a LASIK eye surgery is performed are:

Eye Exam: Your eye doctor will conduct a complete eye exam to ensure that your eyes are in good enough condition for the surgery.
Preventive Measures: Preventive therapy can decrease your risk of developing dry eyes following LASIK.
Medical History: Your eye doctor might also ask you about your general health history and any medications you are currently taking.
Lenses: You should refrain from wearing contact lenses before your LASIK eye surgery as prescribed by your doctor.

How Long Does LASIK Eye Surgery Take?

LASIK eye surgery takes typically 30 minutes or less.

Risks Associated with Laser Eye Procedure?

LASIK eye surgery, like any operation, has some risks. It is a complicated procedure and, if not handled correctly, can cause issues that permanently impair your vision. It is one reason you should go with a surgeon with a lot of experience with these procedures. The other risks include:

Dry Eyes
Under correction
Overcorrection
Regression
Double vision for a few days

LASIK Eye Surgery Benefits

Some of the benefits of vision correction surgeries include the following:

The LASIK procedure has a success rate of 96 percent, and most patients report improved vision.
There is very little to no discomfort in laser-assisted eye procedures.
There are no bandages or sutures involved.
Your doctor can alter your eyesight if any refractive error occurs.
There is no need to wear glasses or lenses as blurred vision is corrected.

LASIK Eye Surgery Recovery

LASIK often results in improved vision without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. In general, you have a very good chance of achieving 20/25 vision or better after refractive surgery. More than 8 out of 10 people who undergo LASIK refractive surgery no longer need to use their glasses or contact lenses for most of their activities.

After LASIK, you may feel a temporary burning or itching sensation immediately following the procedure. You'll probably have blurred vision. When it comes to healing after LASIK eye surgery, it usually occurs very rapidly. Vision may be blurry and hazy for the first day, but most patients notice improved vision within a few days of surgery. Following are some useful tips for you to follow for a quick LASIK recovery:

At least one day of complete rest is recommended.
Refrain from taking part in any strenuous exercise for at least a week, since this can traumatize the eye and affect healing.
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Don't drive after LASIK until your eye doctor sees you the following day and gives you the go ahead.
Follow your doctor's instructions and take any medication prescribed.