LASIK has become an increasingly popular option for those seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, LASIK isn’t the best solution for everyone.
LASIK is a very safe procedure, partly because you must qualify as a good candidate in order to have the procedure. Your eye doctor will carefully assess your eyes and overall health to ensure LASIK is right for you before recommending the surgery.
Keep reading to learn more about LASIK, including how you can know if you can get LASIK!
What is LASIK?
LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a type of refractive eye surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. By altering the shape of the cornea, LASIK can correct common vision problems known as refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
The goal of LASIK is to improve vision and reduce the need for corrective visual aids like glasses and contact lenses.
What Happens During LASIK?
The LASIK procedure typically takes less than thirty minutes for both eyes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Before the procedure, your eye surgeon will place a few numbing drops into your eyes to make sure you are comfortable during the procedure.
Then, they will make a small flap on the surface of your cornea. Next, your LASIK surgeon will fold back the flap and use an excimer laser to reshape the inner layers of your cornea to correct your specific refractive error.
The flap is then carefully replaced, and the procedure is complete. You will need someone to drive you to and from the procedure, but you can go home the same day.
How Do I Know if I am a Candidate For LASIK?
While LASIK can be an excellent option for many people, not everyone is a good candidate for the procedure. To determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK, you’ll need to have a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with your eye doctor at VisionFirst Eye Center.
During your LASIK consultation, your eye doctor will consider several factors, including:
1. The stability of your vision: Your prescription should be stable for at least a year before considering LASIK.
2. The thickness of your cornea: Your cornea must be thick enough to accommodate the creation of the flap and the reshaping of the tissue.
3. The health of your eyes: Conditions such as dry eye syndrome, cataracts, or glaucoma may affect your eligibility for LASIK.
4. Your age: The ideal candidate is over eighteen years old and has had stable vision for at least a year.
It’s important to note that even if you meet these criteria, your LASIK surgeon will still need to evaluate your specific case to determine if LASIK is the best option for you. Some people may be better suited for alternative vision correction procedures, such as the EVO ICL.
The only way to determine if you might be a good candidate for LASIK is to schedule a LASIK consultation with your eye doctor at VisionFirst Eye Center in Birmingham, Alabama.
LASIK can be a life-changing procedure for those seeking to improve their vision and reduce their reliance on visual aids. However, it’s crucial to determine whether or not you’re a suitable candidate before settling on LASIK.
Do you want to learn if LASIK might be right for you? Schedule a LASIK consultation at VisionFirst Eye Center in Birmingham, AL, today!
