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The LASIK Procedure
LASIK is performed as an outpatient procedure. Anesthetic (numbing) eyedrops are placed in the eye immediately prior to surgery in order to minimize discomfort during the procedure. In some cases, a mild sedative pill may be administered to reduce apprehension prior to surgery. The eyelid is cleansed and held open using a special instrument. The other eye is covered with a patch during the treatment.
During the LASIK procedure, the surface cells on the cornea usually remain intact. The first step of the procedure involves a device known as a microkeratome to create the corneal flap. In order to do this accurately, the pressure inside the eye needs to be raised to extremely high levels. This is accomplished with a suction ring placed on the white of the eye. When the suction ring is activated, the pressure inside the eye is confirmed to be sufficiently elevated and the microkeratome is used to cut a partial thickness (generally less than 1/3 of total corneal thickness) section of corneal tissue. In the vast majority of cases, the microkeratome is stopped before it completely goes accross the cornea, creating the desired hinged flap. In rare cases a full round disc is sectioned (called a cap). After the flap is created, it is retracted exposing the underlying stroma.
With the underlying corneal tissue exposed, the laser application begins. This usually takes 30 - 60 seconds depending on the amount of nearsightedness, farsightedness and /or astigmatism that is being treated. The exact number of pulses delivered by the laser is calculated by the laser's computer. During the procedure, the patient will hear a load snapping sound and may detect a slight odor (resulting from the interaction of laser light and the corneal tissue).
After the laser treatment, the flap is put back in its original position (a cap can be similarly replaced into position) without sutures. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are placed in the treated eye after the procedure is completed.
In the immediate post-operative period, the patient may notice his/her vision to be significantly improved compared to before surgery. Best vision, however, may take several days or weeks to achieve. Because of this, and also because of potential effects of any sedatives administered, the patient will not be allowed to drive home. Surgery will not be performed unless a driver is present or other arrangements have been made.
POSTOPERATIVE COURSE
During the early post-operative period, the LASIK patient is examined the next day and potentially every 24-48 hours until the corneal surface heals. Depending on the amount of blurriness and light sensitivity, the patient may need a driver during this early postoperative period. Although the patient usually feels no discomfort during the actual LASIK procedure, there may be very mild discomfort for the first few days after surgery. This may require the use of pain reducing medications and artificial tear drops. Most patients, however are extremely comfortable during the entire postoperative course.
A major concern in the early postoperative period following LASIK is dislodging the flap or cap. It is generally believed that this is most likely to occur in the first 1-2 weeks after surgery and can be caused by vigorous eye rubbing, fingernails, or other injuries to the surface of the eye. Patients will be asked to avoid rubbing their eyes and to wear protective eye shields when they go to sleep for the first few days after surgery.
The postoperative medication regimen is reviewed with the patient both before and after surgery and also with the patients driver prior to discharge on the day of surgery. The patient is evaluated one day after surgery, then at one week and one month. Additional visits may be scheduled as necessary.
In order to minimize the risk of infection and postoperative discomfort, as well as maximize the visual result of the LASIK procedure, it is important for the patient to comply faithfully with medication dosages and schedules. Medications are usually necessary for only a few weeks after LASIK, although in uncommon cases they may be required for up to several months. Additional postoperative visits occur with progressively greater intervals depending upon the patient's clinical course.
Although in the vast majority markedly improved uncorrected vision is generally noted quite soon after LASIK, an individual patient's best vision may not be realized for several weeks or months after surgery. Delayed visual recovery following LASIK may be the result of, among other factors, surface epithelial defects, folds in the flap or cap, improper positioning or dislodging of the flapor cap, or haze/scarring in the interface ... the underlying corneal tissue.
How often should I visit my ophthalmologist?
If you have a history of eye disease, we recommend making regular appointments and following up as your ophthalmologist advises. Call now for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Can I bring a friend with me to my ophthalmologist appointment?
You are always welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointments. An extra set of ears is always helpful so you don’t forget any important information your ophthalmologist goes over with you during your appointment.
How do I know if I should schedule an ophthalmologist appointment?
If you are having eye discomfort or trouble with your vision, schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist. Health conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes, increase your risk for certain diseases. If you have questions or think you might need to see an ophthalmologist, call for more information.
Do your ophthalmologists have tips on how I can protect my eyes?
Don’t forget to wear protective eyewear during activities like mowing the grass, doing construction work, or playing sports. If you wear contacts, take steps to prevent eye infections. Wash your hands before handling your contacts or touching your eyes, and be sure to replace them regularly.
When should I arrive at my ophthalmologist appointment?
We ask that you arrive at your eye appointment fifteen minutes early. That gives you time to fill out any necessary paperwork before your appointment with your doctor.
What should I bring for my ophthalmologist appointment?
You will need to bring your insurance information. If you have a referral from your primary care physician, please have that with you if you haven’t already sent it to us. And lastly, bring a list of all medications you are taking.
Can your ophthalmologists perform LASIK? What can I expect?
One of our most popular procedures at Spectrum Eye Institute is LASIK surgery. An outpatient procedure, LASIK surgery corrects the vision of patients who are nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism. Call now for more information or to see if LASIK might be right for you.
Does your ophthalmologist office offer cosmetic services?
Though ophthalmologists are known for medically necessary services, we also offer cosmetic procedures and services to help you look and feel your best. We offer Botox Cosmetic treatments that smooth deep wrinkles and crows’ feet around your eyes. Call our offices for more information and to schedule a consultation.
