What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?

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LASIK means laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is essentially a surgical treatment for myopia (short-sightedness), some types of far-sightedness and astigmatism. The procedure uses a computer-controlled laser to correct the shape of the cornea and restore good vision.

Who Qualifies for Lasik?

The first condition is to be 21 or over, with a pair of healthy eyes. Your vision needs to have been stable for at least one year before the procedure without any changes in prescription during that time.

If you have severe short- or long-sightedness, or a serious ailment (rheumatoid arthritis for example) that is likely to make healing difficult, LASIK is not a suitable treatment for you. A discussion with your eye care practitioner will reveal your status.

Who do I Consult?

Your optometrist will arrange for you to see an ophthalmologist to determine if LASIK surgery is suitable for you.

If you wear contact lenses your optometrist will tell you how long before the assessment you should stop wearing them, as they can affect the test measurements. Ophthalmologists usually recommend removing them a week before the consultation.

During the assessment your ophthalmologist may conduct the following tests:

• A computerised image of the surface of your eye to “map” the cornea.
• A full eye examination.
• Tests to measure the thickness of your cornea and the size of your pupils in various light conditions.

The scope of the tests will be painless, but thorough, and once complete you will know exactly where you stand in relation to LASIK surgery.

Is the Operation Uncomfortable?

Believe it or not, LASIK is performed as a day case and involves a total stay of about an hour.

During the operation you lie in a reclined position in a special chair, and during the whole procedure you will be awake. A local anesthetic is administered and anesthetic drops will be put into your eye before treatment begins. A special frame is used to prevent you blinking during the procedure and you will not be able to see out of your eye while it is being treated.

The ophthalmologist then uses a precision instrument called a microkeratome that allows the laser access to the cornea to reshape it. The computer-controlled laser takes about 30 seconds to remove the exact amount of corneal tissue required to produce the shape needed. No stitches or medication are required except antibiotic drops placed in the eye as a precaution against infection.

What Happens after the Procedure?

Your eye will be covered with a protective pad that you must wear for 24 hours.

For a few hours following the procedure your eye may be uncomfortable and painkillers will be prescribed if needed. Your vision may be blurred but should improve gradually over several days and stabilise after about four to six weeks.

Your ophthalmologist will schedule another appointment and give you eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing.

It is advisable not to drive home after the surgery. Have a relative or friend take you there and back. Your eyes also are likely to be sensitive and sunglasses are recommended as protection when leaving the hospital or clinic.

Helping the Healing Process

The following will assist the healing process in the first week after LASIK surgery:

• Take a bath rather than shower.
• Make sure soap and shampoo do not get into your eyes.
• Do not touch or rub your eyes.
• Avoid grit getting into the eyes – wear sunglasses to help.
• Avoid eye make-up.
• Do not swim, play sports or games for at least four to six weeks after the surgery.

You should be able to get back to your job within three days and for a comprehensive list of do’s and don’ts, speak to your ophthalmologist who will tell you exactly how to look after yourself.

Possible Side Effects and Complications

Being a relatively new procedure, LASIK’s long-term safety and effectiveness are still undergoing research. Many thousands of people have been successfully treated but to make an informed decision and give your consent, you need to be aware of the possible side effects and complications.

Side effects usually are temporary and for LASIK these include:

• Dry eyes for up to a year after the procedure.
• Seeing “halos” caused by glare that makes night driving difficult and should not last more than six weeks.
• Drooping of the eyelid which should stop within a few weeks.

Post-surgical complications of LASIK are rare but can include:

• A mild haziness or scarring of the cornea.
• Slight over or under-correction of short-sightedness.
• Some recurrence of short-sightedness.
• Accidental damage to the cornea requiring stitches.
• A deterioration of vision, albeit rare.

The degree of improvement in your eyesight will depend on how well your eyes heal. Should the procedure not achieve the result you hoped, your ophthalmologist may recommend further LASIK treatment.

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Related Articles:

Astigmatism
Blepharitis
Vision Therapy
Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

Additional Resources:

LASIK on FDA.gov