Lasik Eye Surgery - Yea Or Nay
the benefits and risks associated with this procedure need to be considered first hand
3/24/2023
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular refractive surgeries, aiming to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This procedure has been performed for over three decades and is now available in many countries worldwide.The principle of LASIK surgery is to reshape the cornea by removing a thin layer of tissue and then applying an excimer laser to modify its shape, so light can focus accurately on the retina.
LASIK surgery can provide a permanent solution to vision problems, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.This article will provide an overview of the history of LASIK surgery, the benefits and risks associated with this procedure, and the warnings that patients should be aware of before considering LASIK surgery.
History of LASIK: The history of LASIK surgery can be traced back to the 1940s when an ophthalmologist named Jose Barraquer developed a technique for reshaping the cornea by removing a thin layer of tissue with a hand-held mechanical instrument. This technique, called keratomileusis, was refined over the next few decades and became the precursor for LASIK surgery.
In the 1980s, the excimer laser was developed, which allowed for more precise and predictable corneal reshaping. The excimer laser emits a cool ultraviolet light that vaporizes tissue without causing damage to surrounding tissue. In 1989, Dr. Ioannis Pallikaris performed the first LASIK surgery on a human eye in Greece, using an early excimer laser.
he procedure quickly gained popularity and spread to the United States, where the FDA approved LASIK surgery in 1999. Today, LASIK surgery is performed worldwide and is considered a safe and effective procedure for correcting vision problems.
Benefits of LASIK Surgery:
The benefits of LASIK surgery are numerous, with most patients reporting a significant improvement in their vision. Here are some of the main benefits of LASIK surgery:
Improved Vision: LASIK surgery can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, providing patients with clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Fast Recovery Time: Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two after LASIK surgery.
Permanent Results: LASIK surgery provides permanent results, meaning that most patients will not need to wear glasses or contact lenses again.
Cost-Effective: Over time, LASIK surgery can be a more cost-effective solution than glasses or contact lenses, as the cost of these corrective devices can add up over time.
Improved Self-Confidence: For many patients, the ability to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses can improve their self-confidence and quality of life.
Risks and Warnings of LASIK Surgery:
While LASIK surgery is generally considered safe, there are some risks and warnings that patients should be aware of before considering this procedure. Here are some of the potential risks and warnings of LASIK surgery:
Dry Eye Syndrome: After LASIK surgery, some patients may experience dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and reduce visual acuity. This condition can usually be treated with artificial tears and other medications.
Glare and Halos: Some patients may experience glare and halos around lights, particularly at night. This can be temporary or permanent and may affect visual acuity.
Overcorrection or Under-correction: In some cases, LASIK surgery may not fully correct vision problems, or it may overcorrect, leading to hyperopia or myopia.
Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. Patients should follow their surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of infection