LASIK Eye Surgery - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Today, LASIK eye surgery is one of the most popular laser eye surgery procedures. Millions of people undergo this procedure every year. It is an exciting option for those who are tired of always wearing glasses or contacts. If you are considering undergoing this procedure to correct your vision, here are the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions you probably have.
Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
If you currently wear glasses or contacts, and your prescription has been stable over the past two years, you may be a good candidate for laser eye surgery. Although LASIK is most often used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, it can also be used to improve many other eye issues. However, if you have corneal scars or retinal issues, you may not be a good candidate for this procedure. An eye examination can determine whether LASIK might be an option for you.
How much improvement can I expect?
Although there is no guarantee that you will be glasses-free after undergoing LASIK eye surgery, many patients experience nearly instant vision improvements. The goal of LASIK and similar laser eye surgery procedures is to decrease your dependence on contacts or glasses, although the amount of improvement will vary from patient to patient.
Are there different types of LASIK?
In addition to conventional LASIK, which is the most basic form of the LASIK procedure, there is also the option of custom LASIK, which offers more precise reshaping of the cornea to correct subtle distortions in its shape. While the flap to access the cornea is usually cut using a small surgical blade, in all-laser LASIK, it is created using a laser beam.
What can I expect during LASIK?
First, the surgeon numbs your eyes with anesthetic drops, before creating a flap in the eye to access the cornea. A computer-assisted laser beam is used to carefully reshape your cornea, which improves the eye's focusing abilities. LASIK takes under an hour, even if the procedure is performed on both eyes during the same session. Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is repositioned over the eye. LASIK is a painless procedure that does not require stitches or sedation.
How long does the recovery period take?
It will take just a few days for your eyes to heal completely following LASIK eye surgery. Most patients take a couple of days off work, although you may be able to return to your daily routine the day after your procedure. Many patients experience immediate improvement in their vision, although halos or glare are possible for several weeks or months following the procedure.
For more information on LASIK as well as cataracts correction and other treatments we offer (BOTOX® injections and laser hair removal), it is important to contact our laser vision correction center in Toronto, Ontario.