For many people, the thought of LASIK brings upon feelings of fear. Unfortunately, they don’t realize is how safe, simple, and effective the procedure really is! We’ve put a list together of facts you probably didn’t know about LASIK, so that we can fight the stigma surrounding it!
- It’s Quick
Contrary to popular belief, LASIK is actually a relatively quick and simple procedure. Here’s how it works:
- Eye Drops
Before the procedure begins, the surgeon will place eye drops in the eye(s) to numb the area that is going to be treated. The drops take effect almost immediately and will last throughout the whole surgery.
- Flap
Once you’re numb and good to go, your surgeon will create a flap on the cornea using a laser. The flap will then be lifted and the correcting of your vision begins! You may experience your vision blur for a few minutes, but this is normal.
- Laser Reshaping
This is the part where the laser reshapes the top layer of your cornea, correcting your vision. During this process you might hear a clicking sound and smell an odor. Don’t worry, that’s normal too.
- It’s Not That Scary
Surprising, right? As human beings, it’s just a natural instinct to be afraid of anything potentially harming our eyes. After all, it is one of our most precious senses. LASIK is a safe procedure that has and will continue to improve and progress. Choosing the right surgeon with experience and proper certifications will ensure that the procedure runs smoothly. Knowing that you’re in good hands will also help you relax and trust that everything is going to be okay. Plus, the procedure is completely painless. If your nerves get the best of you, there’s always the option to take an oral sedative to help you relax. Don’t let your fear get in the way of achieving the vision that you have always wanted.
- Laser Eye Surgery Has Been Around Since 1988
Many people think LASIK is a recently discovered procedure because of its explosive success over the past couple of years, but that’s wrong! It’s been around for quite some time and continues to improve through technological advancements. In 1988, the first form of laser eye surgery was done on a 60-year-old woman who had a black spot growing on her eye, which turned out to be melanoma. The woman reached out to scientists, asking them if they would like to experiment the procedure on her. Following the experiment, Canada approved the laser used for laser eye surgery in 1991, and it was then approved in the United States in 1995. The rest is history!
- There Is Approximately a 0.1% Chance of a Minor Visual Complication
In the case of a complication, most times it can be treated by a surgeon. One complication that many patients worry about after the procedure is blindness. What many people don’t know is that there are no known cases of blindness following laser eye surgery. The technology used in these procedures is so advanced, that your eye is followed throughout the procedure with a digital eye tracking system, helping to ensure absolute precision and superior results.
- Recovery is Fast
The best part about LASIK is that most patients can return to work and even drive the next day. With that being said, protecting your eyes from harsh UV rays is especially important. Participating in any sport related activities is not recommended until at least 3 days after your procedure. Your vision may be blurred after the surgery, but after a good night’s rest your eyes should restore themselves and you will begin to enjoy all the benefits that LASIK has to offer.
Are you considering LASIK? That’s great! At Eye LASIK Austin, we offer the most advanced corrective procedures currently available, including iLASIK. Our skilled staff will tailor the whole process to you and ensure you are comfortable and satisfied before, during, and after the procedure. Let us help you achieve the clear vision you have always wanted. We can answer all of your questions about LASIK. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
