LASIK can be a great option if you’re looking to reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses. However, there can be a lot to learn about it. If you’re considering LASIK surgery, then it’s important to enlist the help of your ophthalmologist who can recommend the right options for you. Here’s a guide to determining your options with LASIK.
What is LASIK surgery?
LASIK surgery is a form of refractive eye correction that can help improve vision to at least 20/25. If you suffer from refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness, then LASIK can help correct your vision for the long term. It works by reshaping the cornea of each eye using a laser platform for preciseness and effectiveness. Afterward, your eyes heal quickly and naturally, resulting in greatly improved vision without corrective lenses.
LASIK Alternatives
There are some alternative surgeries to LASIK that you might suit you better for a number of reasons. Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is one of the older forms of surgery and is generally only used for minor nearsightedness now. Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) may be recommended for patients with thin corneas because it requires a smaller portion of the cornea to be manipulated. Epithelial laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (epi-LASIK) is similar to LASEK. Implantable lenses are a popular option for more senior patients who may have cataracts issues. Your ophthalmologist can recommend the best option for you based on your health and existing eye conditions.
Can LASIK really improve my life?
LASIK surgery is transformative for many patients in that they no longer have to struggle with the daily inconvenience and expense of wearing contact lenses or glasses. While you may require glasses for driving at night as you age, the positive results of LASIK surgery are very long-lasting. This is especially true now that the procedure has been innovated and improved over the decades. Many patients consider it an investment in their future quality of life since they no longer need to manage their prescriptions or keep track of glasses and contact lenses.
Scheduling your first consultation for LASIK surgery
LASIK is an excellent option for improving your vision in the long-term with a single surgical procedure. If you are curious about whether LASIK surgery could be a good option for you, set up an initial appointment with our experienced eye doctors at Boston Eye Group.
