Lasik eye surgery is a popular procedure that aims to rectify common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. This surgical procedure is a specialization of the broadly-used refractive surgery that changes the shape of the cornea to enable light entering the eye to be correctly focused onto the retina, ultimately leading to clearer vision.
Lasik surgery is most certainly an invention of brilliance. It utilizes a unique laser, termed an excimer, which is accurately able to reshape the cornea without inducing any thermal damage to surrounding tissues. In this process, the surgeon creates a thin flap within the layer of the cornea, lifts it to expose the middle section known as stroma, and subsequently eliminates a calculated amount of corneal tissue with the excimer laser. It is a fairly quick procedure, typically taking only around 10 to 15 minutes for each eye, and is carried out under local anesthesia in the form of eye drops.
One of the most significant benefits of Lasik surgery is the extremely fast recovery time. In most cases, individuals can return to their regular activities as quickly as the day after the procedure. Moreover, it usually leads to a particularly significant enhancement in unaided vision. Some patients enjoy 20/20 vision post-surgery and a significant proportion can achieve better than 20/20, which can certainly be a life-changing experience.
The potential risks and complications of Lasik surgery should, however, also be considered. Some of the common side effects include dry eyes, temporary visual disturbances and difficulty in night driving. In rare circumstances, the procedure may also lead to severe vision loss. Therefore, it is vital for anyone contemplating this surgery to have a comprehensive talk with their doctor about the possible complications, their individual risks and the alternatives that exist before making a decision.
The Lasik eye surgery cost depends on several factors, including the technology used, the surgeon's experience, and the geographic location. On average, one can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 per eye. While this may seem expensive, the potential benefit of eliminating the ongoing costs and inconveniences of glasses or contact lenses should be factored into an individual's consideration.
In summary, Lasik eye surgery can provide miraculous improvements in vision and quality of life in the right candidates. As with any surgical procedure, it does come with potential risks and complications. Therefore, anyone contemplating Lasik surgery should discuss it thoroughly with a reputable and experienced refractive surgeon to ensure it is the right choice for them.