LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, a procedure used to correct some vision defects. When light enters the eye, it is refracted by the cornea on to the retina. If the cornea is misshapen, the refraction is uneven, and this reduces a person’s ability to correctly interpret what is being looked at. All or part of the object being viewed may appear blurred.
The most common conditions for which LASIK surgery is used are astigmatism, long-sightedness (hyperopia) and nearsightedness (myopia). People with astigmatism, unless it is very mild, will have blurred vision. Those with long-sightedness can see things clearly when they are looking at distant objects, but objects that are close appear out of focus. Nearsightedness is the opposite to long-sightedness. Somebody with myopia can see nearby objects clearly, but they cannot clearly see distant objects.
In many cases, these vision problems can be managed by using corrective lenses such as eyeglasses or contact lenses. People who do not like corrective lenses may choose to attend an eye surgery clinic for a more permanent solution. Some vision defects can only be corrected by surgery. LASIK eye surgery is a way of changing the shape of the cornea so that it refracts light more evenly. A LASIK surgeon in St. Louis explains the procedure.
LASIK surgery
The surgeon uses a laser beam to cut a very small section of the tissue covering the cornea. The surgeon then folds back a flap of tissue, exposing the cornea. Next, the surgeon uses laser light to reshape the corneal tissue so that it refracts light correctly. When the reshaping is finished, the surgeon replaces the flap over the cornea. In the past, when scalpels were used to make the flap incision, it was necessary to use sutures to reattach the flap. Sutures are not required after LASIK surgery.
Are there any risks associated with LASIK surgery?
All surgery carries some degree of risk, but LASIK eye surgery is perfectly safe for the vast majority of people. As with any cuts to tissue, there is a risk of the area becoming infected. There is a very slight risk that vision will be even more impaired after surgery.
How can I find out of LASIK surgery is right for me?
Arrange a consultation with a LASIK eye surgery clinic. The clinic will carry out various tests to determine what is causing your vision defects. An expert will then be able to explain your options.
