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How Does LASIK Eye Surgery Feel?

Many prospective patients wonder, “How does LASIK eye surgery feel?” The short answer: It’s a bit awkward but generally painless. Let’s walk through the LASIK experience to demystify the procedure and ease your concerns.

Pre-Surgery Preparation: Numbing Your Eyes

Before your LASIK procedure begins, your surgeon will administer anesthetic eye drops. These feel like ordinary eye drops but contain a local anesthetic that quickly numbs your eyes. As you blink, the numbing agent spreads across your eye surface, similar to windshield wiper fluid. This ensures you’ll feel no pain during the surgery.

The LASIK Procedure: What to Expect

  1. Keeping Your Eye Open Once you’re lying down in the laser suite, your doctor will use a speculum to hold your eye open. While your eye is numb, your eyelids aren’t, so this may feel slightly uncomfortable at first. Imagine holding your eye open to insert a contact lens – that’s similar to how it feels during LASIK.
  2. Creating the Flap The first main step of LASIK involves creating a corneal flap. Your surgeon will use a suction device, which may cause a feeling of pressure or mild discomfort. This is typically the least comfortable part of the procedure and contributes to the “awkward feeling” some patients describe.
  3. Reshaping the Cornea During the actual laser treatment to reshape your cornea, you’ll be asked to focus on a light. Surprisingly, most patients don’t feel any sensation during this part of the procedure.

Post-LASIK Sensations: The Healing Process

After LASIK surgery, it’s normal to experience some burning, tearing, or discomfort for a few hours. This is your eyes beginning the healing process – similar to how a scab might itch as it heals. Your doctor will recommend resting your eyes frequently for about a day post-surgery to aid in recovery.

Remember, while LASIK eye surgery might feel a bit strange, it’s a quick and generally comfortable procedure. The temporary awkwardness is a small price to pay for improved vision and freedom from glasses or contacts.

Considering LASIK? Schedule a consultation with our experienced surgeons to learn more about how LASIK eye surgery feels and whether it’s right for you.

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What is Nearsightedness (Myopia)?

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a common vision condition where individuals have difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. People with nearsightedness can typically see objects close up without any problems, but distant objects appear blurry or out of focus.

The primary cause of nearsightedness is the elongation of the eyeball. In a normal eye, light rays entering the eye converge precisely on the retina, located at the back of the eyeball. However, in a nearsighted eye, the elongated eyeball causes light rays to focus in front of the retina, resulting in blurred distant vision.

Symptoms of Nearsightedness:

  • Blurred vision when looking at distant objects
  • Squinting to see distant objects clearly
  • Headaches
  • Eye strain
  • Difficulty seeing while driving at night

What is Farsightedness (Hyperopia)?

Farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, is another common vision condition where individuals have difficulty focusing on near objects. People with farsightedness can usually see distant objects clearly, but objects held close appear blurry or out of focus.

The primary cause of farsightedness is the inability of the eye to focus light rays correctly on the retina. This can be due to the eyeball being too short or the cornea having an abnormal curvature. As a result, light rays entering the eye converge behind the retina, leading to blurred near vision.

Symptoms of Farsightedness:

  • Blurred vision when focusing on near objects, such as reading or using a computer
  • Headaches
  • Eye strain
  • Eyestrain
  • Fatigue caused by excessive focusing effort

Key Differences Between Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

While both nearsightedness and farsightedness affect the ability to focus on objects at certain distances, they have distinct characteristics:

  • Focus of Blurred Vision: In nearsightedness, distant objects appear blurry, while near objects are clear. Conversely, in farsightedness, near objects appear blurry, while distant objects are clear.
  • Cause: Nearsightedness is primarily caused by an elongated eyeball, while farsightedness is caused by a shortened eyeball or an abnormally curved cornea.
  • Symptoms: Nearsightedness may cause squinting, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night. Farsightedness may cause headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue from excessive focusing effort.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

Both nearsightedness and farsightedness can be easily diagnosed by a comprehensive eye exam performed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. A typical eye exam will include a visual acuity test, refraction test, and examination of the eye’s internal health.

eye exam for nearsightedness vs farsightedness

Following the diagnosis, several corrective options are available to improve vision for both nearsightedness and farsightedness:

  • Eyeglasses and Contacts: Eyeglasses and contact lenses are the most common corrective options for nearsightedness and farsightedness. They utilize lenses with specific powers to bend light rays and focus them precisely on the retina, resulting in clear vision.
  • Orthokeratology: Orthokeratology involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. This can improve vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts during waking hours.
  • LASIK Surgery: LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea to improve focus. LASIK surgery can be a permanent vision correction solution for nearsightedness and farsightedness.

Choosing the Right Treatment Option:

The best treatment option for nearsightedness or farsightedness will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Consulting with an ophthalmologist or optometrist is essential to determine the most suitable corrective approach for your specific vision condition.

Nearsightedness and farsightedness are widespread vision conditions that can significantly impact your daily activities. Fortunately, with advancements in eye care, numerous effective corrective options are available to address these conditions and improve your vision. By scheduling regular eye exams and discussing your vision concerns with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, you can ensure you receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan to achieve clear and comfortable vision.

This comprehensive guide has equipped you with a deeper understanding of nearsightedness vs. farsightedness. Remember, early detection and proper management are crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and visual function throughout your life.

Sources:

Nearsightedness – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2024, April 19). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nearsightedness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375556

Farsightedness – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2020, June 16). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/farsightedness/symptoms-causes/syc-20372495

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a revolutionary vision correction procedure that liberates countless individuals from the constraints of glasses and contact lenses. It’s natural to yearn to experience the world with newfound clarity, and air travel often presents an exciting opportunity for exploration. But a crucial question lingers in the minds of many LASIK patients: can I fly after LASIK surgery?

The answer is a resounding yes! There’s no mandated restriction on flying after LASIK. However, prioritizing certain precautions and considerations during the initial healing phase safeguards your eyes and ensures a comfortable travel experience.

Embarking on Your Journey with Confidence: Pre-Flight Preparations After LASIK

While there are no absolute restrictions, meticulous planning guarantees a smooth and enjoyable flight after LASIK surgery. Here are some key measures to incorporate into your pre-flight routine:

  • Heed Your Doctor’s Guidance: An open dialogue with your ophthalmologist is paramount. Discuss your travel plans thoroughly, and meticulously adhere to their specific recommendations regarding flying after LASIK.
  • Time Your Travels Wisely: While there’s no blanket waiting period, it’s generally recommended to wait at least one week, ideally two weeks, following LASIK surgery before flying. This allows ample time for your eyes to heal sufficiently and minimizes the risk of complications.
  • Pack Prescribed Eye Drops: Diligent use of artificial tears, as prescribed by your doctor, is essential. The airplane cabin environment can be particularly drying for the eyes, and these lubricating drops will keep your eyes comfortable throughout the flight.
  • Pack an Eye Mask: An eye mask shields your eyes from exposure to bright lights and air turbulence, promoting relaxation and uninterrupted sleep during your flight.

Soaring Through the Skies: In-Flight Precautions for LASIK Patients

With the necessary preparations in place, you’re well on your way to a relaxing and enjoyable flight. Here are some additional tips to optimize your comfort during the journey:

  • Minimize Cabin Air Exposure: Airplane ventilation systems can circulate dry air. Aim to minimize exposure by directing air vents away from your face.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to counteract dehydrating cabin air, which can worsen eye dryness.
  • Limit Eye Strain: Minimize activities that strain your eyes, such as reading for extended periods or watching movies on your laptop. Prioritize rest and relaxation for your eyes.
  • Be Mindful of Germs: Airplane cabins are notorious for harboring germs. Avoid touching your eyes without thoroughly washing your hands beforehand.
travel after LASIK

Navigating Potential Concerns: Addressing Common Post-LASIK Flight Queries

While the vast majority of LASIK patients experience no complications during air travel, some lingering concerns are understandable. Let’s address a few common questions:

  • Can I wear eye makeup after LASIK surgery? It’s best to avoid eye makeup for at least a week, or as advised by your doctor, to minimize the risk of infection or rubbing your eye when removing makeup.
  • What if I experience dry eye during the flight? Utilize the artificial tears prescribed by your doctor as frequently as needed. Consider using a cool mist humidifier to add moisture to the air.
  • What if I accidentally rub my eyes? If you inadvertently rub your eyes, refrain from panicking. Gently rinse your eyes with sterile saline solution or use lubricating eye drops. Avoid rubbing your eyes further and consult your doctor if any discomfort persists.

By adhering to these recommendations and prioritizing open communication with your ophthalmologist, you can confidently embark on your post-LASIK travels, reveling in the joy of clear vision and exciting adventures.

Summer is the best time of the year to be outdoors, and take in everything that nature has to offer. There’s always another barbecue, beach day, or beautiful hiking trail waiting around the next corner, which makes it tempting to put off your vision correction needs. But what if taking care of your vision also made it easier to enjoy everything that summer has to offer? Laser eye surgery offers the best of both worlds.

The minimal down-time of LASIK means you won’t miss many steamy summer days, and there’s nothing like enjoying your favorite summer activities with less dependency on glasses or contact lenses.

Don’t Wait. Enjoy Summer in Style with the Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

  • Traveling with Peace of Mind – Have big travel plans this summer? Don’t let vision problems slow you down. Schedule LASIK ahead of time, so you can experience the sights of your travel destination with less hassle.
  • Freedom for Summer Sports – Whether you’re enjoying a hike in the great outdoors or unleashing a perfect drive down the fairway, clearer vision has major benefits. Opting for LASIK eye surgery may help you enjoy favorite summer sports.
  • A Delightful Day at the Beach – When the weather heats up, there’s no better place to be than the beach. The only downside? Between the sand, salt water, and summer sun, a trip to the beach poses unique challenges for anyone with glasses or contacts. Opt for LASIK eye surgery, and after your doctor’s recommended pot-operative recovery time, you can enjoy the excitement of the beach with less worry.
Summer the best time for LASIK
  • Summer Family Fun – With the kids out of school, summer is a very fun (and very busy!) time of the year for parents everywhere. The vision benefits of LASIK may inspire you to do activities that you previously avoided! Make the most of your time with your children without letting your vision hold you back.

Are you ready to start enjoying the benefits of laser eye surgery, just in time for summer? Schedule your FREE consultation now.

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Most popular summer pastimes involve spending time in the sun, whether you’re at the pool, a ballgame, or tending to your garden on a sunny afternoon. While you’re busy enjoying your favorite summer activities, it’s equally important to consider eye protection from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can cause short-term damage, and extended exposure to UV light is a key contributor to many common vision problems.

eye protection from the sun

Sun Eye Protection Outdoors

One of the biggest misconceptions about summer is that a cloudy day means you’re safe from the dangerous side effects of the sun’s rays. In truth, eye protection is just as important on cloudy days, because plenty of light still makes it through clouds. The same goes for cooler than average summer days. Cooler air may make sunlight feel less intense, but it doesn’t lower the risk that comes from UV light. During the summer, it’s always better to play it safe with your eye health by using adequate sun eye protection.

  • UV-Blocking Sunglasses – Sunglasses come in many styles, and keeping a pair handy is a great decision year-round. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends choosing sunglasses that are labeled “100 percent UV protection,” and lenses that provide coverage for your whole eye. The good news is that you don’t have to spend big money to get the necessary UV protection, as plenty of lower-priced options do the job just fine.
  • Don’t Forget a Hat – In addition to providing added eye protection, a broad-brimmed hat helps keep direct sunlight off of your face. While a baseball-style cap doesn’t provide quite the same level of eye protection, it’s still a solid option. It’s important to remember, however, that a hat isn’t a substitute for UV-protection sunglasses. It’s best to have both on hand, especially if you’ll be spending long hours in the sun.
  • Eye Protection While Swimming – Spending time in the pool, lake, or ocean is a fun way to cool off in the summer, and it’s wise to protect your eyes whenever you take a dip. Some swimming goggles offer UV protection, and help keep the water out of your eyes in addition to protecting from sunlight. Remember that if you wear contacts, it’s best to take them out before going for a swim.
  • Caring for Kids – Children can be especially vulnerable to the effects of UV light because they not only tend to spend more time outdoors, but they don’t understand the danger of the sun’s rays, so be sure your little ones have ample eye protection. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen work well for children, too, so the trick is simply getting your kids to use them regularly. It’s worth the effort.
  • Planning Your Day – If you’re planning an outdoor activity, the morning or late afternoon are both better than midday. The sun is at its strongest during the midday hours, from 12 o’clock to early afternoon. In addition to helping you avoid the strongest UV light, planning for the right time of day will typically keep you out of the most intense summer heat.

Protecting your eyes when outdoors should be a priority throughout the entire year, especially during the summer months. It will require few, if any, changes to your routine, and it really does make a difference. Keeping a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle is a great way to ensure that you’ll have ample eye protection, no matter where your favorite outdoor activities take you.

Source:

The heat is on: Ensure patients’ protective eyewear is, too. (n.d.). AOA. https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/health-and-wellness/protecting-patients-eye-summer?sso=y

Like LASIK, Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a proven laser eye surgery procedure to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK offers an excellent success rate and an ideal alternative for patients who may not be a good candidate for LASIK surgery. While PRK and LASIK are similar in many ways, the recovery process for each procedure is a bit different.

Ahead, we’ll cover the key steps and milestones of PRK laser eye surgery recovery, so you’ll know exactly what to expect on the path to better vision.

PRK Laser Eye Surgery Recovery: Timeline and Key Recovery Milestones

The biggest difference between PRK and LASIK is no flap is required for PRK laser eye surgery. Both procedures reshape the cornea to address vision problems, but the lack of a flap with PRK is actually why it’s a good fit for people who may not be a good candidate for LASIK surgery.

  • First Days of PRK Recovery – The first few days of PRK laser eye surgery recovery will mostly be dedicated to resting, to allow the healing process to take its course. A soft contact lens “bandage” will be placed on the cornea to help protect your eye. Typically, the bandage is worn for 5 days. You may experience some itching, or discomfort during the first few days, but these symptoms clear up progressively as your eyes get a chance to heal. Your doctor will typically schedule your first follow-up appointment shortly after your PRK surgery, to check on your progress and answer any questions you may have.
  • Eye Protection and Lubrication – With PRK recovery, it’s important to provide your eyes with the protection they need to heal. Dry eye is very common after any eye surgery, so using the eye drops your doctor prescribes is highly recommended, and you will also have eye protection for while you sleep. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes even when they itch, because rubbing can lead to a longer recovery.
  • Follow-up Visits – You will have a series of follow-up visits during your PRK recovery period, with a longer duration between each visit as you move through the healing process. These visits are very important, so be sure to attend every scheduled check-up to make sure that everything is progressing as planned. Your checkups are also the perfect time to ask your doctor about resuming specific activities.
  • Weeks after PRK – In the weeks after PRK surgery, you may experience sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, and a halo effect around bright lights. These are all normal symptoms, and should resolve themselves as your eyes continue to heal. The first month tends to feature a pretty rapid improvement, and you’ll even notice a big difference by the end of the first week.
  • Months after PRK – By this point, recovery symptoms should be a thing of the past, and you should be enjoying the benefits of improved visual acuity from PRK. You may still have a few scheduled checkups with your doctor, but these appointments are mostly to make sure that things are progressing as planned. Just like with LASIK, the six-month mark is a major milestone for PRK recovery.

Having the right laser eye surgeon on your side makes a big difference in your PRK recovery, so be sure to choose a team that makes you feel comfortable – and keeps you informed – throughout the process. You’ll be enjoying your favorite activities with newfound clarity before you know it.

We understand the importance of clarity when it comes to your eyeglass prescription. We recognize that deciphering the seemingly cryptic language of your prescription can be daunting. Fear not, for we are here to translate the process and empower you with the knowledge needed to confidently understand and interpret your prescription like a pro.

Decoding Your Eyeglass Prescription

Understanding the Basics

Your eyeglass prescription contains vital information that guides the creation of lenses tailored specifically to your vision needs. Let’s delve into the key components of your prescription:

Sphere (SPH)

The sphere, often abbreviated as SPH, indicates the primary correction needed for nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). A negative value (-) denotes nearsightedness, while a positive value (+) signifies farsightedness.

Cylinder (CYL) and Axis

The cylinder (CYL) and axis values address astigmatism, a condition where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape. The cylinder value indicates the degree of astigmatism, while the axis denotes its orientation.

Addition (ADD)

For those with presbyopia, an age-related condition affecting near vision, the addition (ADD) value is crucial. It signifies the additional magnifying power required for reading or close-up tasks.

Prism and Base

Rarely included in standard prescriptions, prism and base values address eye alignment issues. They indicate the amount and direction of prism correction needed.

Interpreting the Numbers

Now that we’ve dissected the abbreviations, let’s put them into context:

  • If your prescription reads -2.00 SPH, it means you have moderate nearsightedness.
  • A prescription of +1.50 SPH indicates mild farsightedness.
  • A CYL value of -1.25 with an axis of 90° suggests moderate astigmatism.
  • An ADD value of +2.00 corresponds to presbyopia, requiring additional magnification for near tasks.
  • Prism and base values, if present, address eye alignment issues and are specified accordingly.
Understanding your prescription

Why Understanding Your Prescription Matters

Having a clear grasp of your eyeglass prescription is important for several reasons:

Personalized Vision Correction

By understanding your prescription, you can ensure that your eyeglasses are tailored precisely to your vision needs. This personalized approach enhances visual clarity and comfort, optimizing your overall visual experience.

Informed Decision-Making

Armed with knowledge about your prescription, you can make informed decisions regarding your eye care options. Whether considering eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, understanding your prescription empowers you to choose the most suitable solution for your vision requirements.

Effective Communication with Eye Care Professionals

Clear communication with your eye care provider is essential for optimal vision care. By comprehending your prescription, you can engage in meaningful discussions with your optometrist or ophthalmologist, ensuring that your eye care needs are met with precision and accuracy. Your eyeglass prescription holds the key to achieving optimal vision and eye health. By decoding its intricacies, you gain valuable insights into your visual needs and preferences. At The LASIK Vision Institute, we are committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to navigate the world of eye care confidently. With our comprehensive resources and expert guidance, you can unlock the full potential of your vision and embrace a life of clarity and confidence.

Source:

How to Read an Eyeglasses Prescription. (2023, April 18). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/how-to-read-eyeglasses-prescription

Understanding LASIK Surgery and Age Considerations

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a widely recognized procedure for correcting vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. While the minimum age for LASIK surgery is 18 years, there is no definitive upper age limit for undergoing this procedure. Instead, even in your 50’s and 60’s the eligibility for LASIK is primarily determined by the health and stability of the eyes.

Am I a Good LASIK Candidate in My 50’s and 60’s?

LASIK candidacy requires:

  • Stable Vision Prescription: To be considered for LASIK, a patient’s vision prescription must remain stable for at least one year. Frequent changes in prescription can indicate underlying issues that may compromise the effectiveness of the surgery.
  • Eye Health: Good overall eye health is essential for LASIK candidates. Conditions such as cataracts or severe refractive errors may preclude LASIK as an option. Patients should also be free from eye infections or injuries and have corneas of sufficient thickness.
  • General Health: Patients should be in good overall health. Certain conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or the regular use of medications like corticosteroids, can affect healing and may impact the decision to proceed with LASIK.
Take Our LASIK Candidacy Quiz

Is There an Age Limit for LASIK?

Although there is no strict age cutoff for LASIK, there are other reasons why patients may opt for this surgery beyond the age of 45. These reasons include the increased risk of cataracts and the onset of presbyopia.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the age-related loss of near vision, typically beginning around age 45. LASIK primarily corrects vision at a single distance, which means patients who undergo LASIK for distance vision might still require reading glasses.

man looks at phone from a distance as he struggles to read phone text up close
diagram of eye with Cataracts

Cataract Development

As individuals age, the likelihood of developing cataracts increases. Cataracts can cloud the lens of the eye, reducing vision clarity. While LASIK does not prevent cataracts, patients who have had cataract surgery can still consider LASIK afterward.

The Best LASIK Options For Your 50’s and 60’s

Monovision LASIK

Monovision LASIK is often recommended for older patients. This procedure corrects one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision, providing a blended vision that helps compensate for presbyopia. Before proceeding with monovision LASIK, patients typically trial this vision correction using contact lenses to ensure compatibility.

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): An Alternative to LASIK

For many patients in their 50s and 60s, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) offers a viable alternative to LASIK. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea, RLE replaces the eye’s natural lens with an advanced intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is similar to cataract surgery and provides long-term vision correction.

Making the Right Choice for Vision Correction

Choosing the right vision correction involves a thorough evaluation of eye health and personal vision goals. A consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist is crucial to determine the best course of action. The experienced doctor will assess the patient’s overall health, eye condition, and lifestyle needs to recommend the most suitable vision correction option.

Schedule a free consultation with one of our LASIK experts today, to understand if LASIK eye surgery is the best option for you.

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About The Author

Dr. J. Ryan Brewer, D.O. is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Born and raised in central Texas, Dr. Brewer has quickly established himself as one of the most respected and most successful LASIK surgeons throughout the state and has recently hit the milestone of 23,000+ refractive surgeries and also named the Best Eye Care Professional second place finalist in Austin and San Antonio.

If you have never had an eye exam before or have been putting off visiting your eye doctor, you may be feeling some anxiety about your next trip to the optometrist’s office. There’s nothing to fear about having your vision checked – in fact, doing so could improve your quality of life if you are living with an undiagnosed vision problem. Here are a few of the most common questions that people have about eye exams or if they are a candidate for a LASIK procedure.

When do I need to have my eyes checked?

The Mayo Clinic states that young adults who are healthy and have no symptoms of vision issues should visit their eye doctor every five to 10 years. For people between the ages of 40 and 65, it’s best to undergo an eye exam every two to four years. Seniors age 65 and older should go every one to two years.

However, those with vision issues, a family history of eye disease or a chronic illness that makes eyesight issues more likely should go more frequently. Even if you wear corrective lenses or have undergone laser eye surgery, you should still have an eye exam once or twice a year.

How can I prepare for an eye exam?

The first step toward getting an eye exam is finding a doctor in your area. You can visit either an optometrist or ophthalmologist – both sets of professionals are qualified to carry out a thorough eye exam.

Your doctor will ask you for an overview of your medical history, particularly as it relates to your eye health. You will be asked if you are experiencing any eye issues now or have in the past, and your doctor will also want to know about any health problems you’ve experienced recently. You may want to ask your parents about any eye-related illnesses in your family history, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. Bear in mind that diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease can also have an impact on eye health. Sorting out these questions before your visit will make the process smoother.

What happens during an eye exam?

The American Optometric Association states that after reviewing your medical history, your eye doctor will likely administer a visual acuity test. This may involve reading numbers or letters on an eye chart. Other examinations will measure your depth perception and peripheral vision, color vision, eye muscle movements and your eyes’ response to light. A process known as keratometry may be administered to test the curvature of your eye – this will help determine if you have astigmatism. There are a number of other tests your doctor may carry out depending on your eye health and when it was that you last visited an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

What if I am diagnosed with a vision problem?

If your eye doctor determines that you are suffering from vision issues, he or she will discuss what treatments are available to help alleviate the problem. Don’t be surprised if you are suffering from astigmatism, nearsightedness or farsightedness – these eye issues are common and, thankfully, easy to treat.

Glasses and contact lenses are common ways to resolve these eye issues, and your doctor may also talk to you about laser eye correction. While some eye doctor’s offices have opticians on site who can help you fill eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions, you may be referred to a different office or LASIK surgeon for treatment.

Source:

Adult health. (2023, October 10). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/basics/eye-care/hlv-20049421

Comprehensive eye exams. (n.d.). AOA. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/eye-exams?sso=y

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) surgery is a revolutionary procedure that transforms lives by correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. With a remarkable success rate, LASIK offers the promise of long-lasting freedom from glasses and contacts. However, for a small percentage of patients, vision may shift slightly over time, or residual refractive error might remain unaddressed during the initial procedure. This is where LASIK enhancement steps in, providing an effective option to refine vision and recapture the exceptional clarity achieved with the first LASIK surgery.

Understanding LASIK Enhancement: When is it Necessary?

LASIK enhancement, also known as a LASIK retreatment, is a precise laser vision correction procedure designed to address residual refractive errors or minor vision changes that may occur after the initial LASIK surgery. These changes can stem from:

  • Natural fluctuations in vision: As we age, our vision can naturally change. LASIK enhancement can rectify these age-related adjustments.
  • Under correction or overcorrection: While uncommon, the initial LASIK procedure might not fully correct the refractive error, leaving some residual prescription. LASIK enhancement can fine-tune the correction for optimal results.
  • Healing variations: The corneal tissue’s healing process can influence the final LASIK outcome. LASIK enhancement can address these variations and ensure the desired vision correction.

It’s important to note that LASIK enhancement is not a routine procedure. Generally, ophthalmologists recommend waiting for your vision to stabilize, typically around one year after the initial LASIK surgery.

Are You a Candidate for LASIK Enhancement?

Determining candidacy for LASIK enhancement requires a comprehensive evaluation by your ophthalmologist. Key factors considered during the evaluation include:

  • Corneal thickness: The cornea is the dome-shaped transparent layer at the front of the eye. Adequate corneal thickness is crucial for safe LASIK enhancement procedures.
  • Stability of your vision: Your eye doctor will assess whether your vision prescription has remained stable for at least a year after the initial LASIK surgery.
  • Overall eye health: A thorough examination ensures your eyes are healthy and free of any conditions that might contraindicate LASIK enhancement.
LASIK enhancement

The LASIK Enhancement Procedure: Reclaiming Visual Freedom

LASIK enhancement is a minimally invasive procedure similar to the initial LASIK surgery. During the procedure, your ophthalmologist will likely utilize the same advanced laser technology to refine the corneal shape and achieve the desired vision correction. The specific details of the procedure will vary depending on your individual needs and the goals of the enhancement.

The Advantages of LASIK Enhancement

LASIK enhancement offers a multitude of benefits for patients who experience vision changes after LASIK surgery. These advantages include:

  • Improved vision: By addressing residual refractive errors, LASIK enhancement can significantly improve visual clarity and reduce dependence on corrective lenses.
  • Enhanced quality of life: Regaining sharp vision can significantly enhance your daily activities, from driving and reading to participating in sports and hobbies.
  • Minimally invasive procedure: LASIK enhancement is a quick and efficient outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort and a relatively short recovery time.
  • Long-lasting results: While not guaranteed, LASIK enhancement can provide long-lasting vision correction, reducing the need for future procedures.

LASIK Enhancement: Partnering with Your Ophthalmologist for Optimal Vision

LASIK enhancement is a valuable tool for patients who seek to refine their vision after LASIK surgery. By scheduling a consultation with your ophthalmologist, you can explore candidacy, discuss the procedure’s details, and determine if LASIK enhancement is the right choice for achieving your vision goals. Remember, a successful LASIK enhancement hinges on a thorough evaluation, advanced technology, and the expertise of a qualified ophthalmologist.

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