What is Lasik eye surgery and why are we hearing so much about it lately? Lasik eye surgery can help reduce or eliminate the need to rely on corrective lenses. It was developed in the early l980's to reshape the cornea to conform to your glasses or contact lens prescription. What is the procedure like? After numbing your eyes with anesthesia, an eyelid holder is placed between your eyelids to prevent blinking. Next, an instrument known as a microkeratome makes a protective flap in the cornea. You are asked to look directly at a target light while the laser reshapes the cornea, usually in less than a minute. Then, the protective flap is folded back in place where it bonds securely without the need for stitches. Why is the cornea being reshaped? If you are nearsighted, the cornea must be made flatter. This is accomplished by removing tissue from the center of the cornea. To treat farsightedness, the central cornea must be made steeper. This is accomplished by directing the laser beam to remove tissue from around this area. To treat astigmatism, the cornea must be made more spherical. By changing the pattern of the beam, tissue is removed in one direction more than the other. The Lasik excimer laser removes microscopic layers of corneal tissue to change its shape, allowing light rays to focus more directly on the retina. This leaves a small surface area to heal and little risk of scarring and corneal haze. There is also little postoperative discomfort and need for medications. Vision is usually restored within a day or two. Although postoperative results may vary, many patients are able to pass a drivers license test without their glasses or contact lenses.
Being nearsighted, I decided to check into having the surgery. I had my eyes examined by three different doctors and I attended a seminar discussing the procedure. Having very dry eyes, I was concerned about this being a problem. I was assured that my eyes weren't nearly as dry as some people and each doctor felt that I was a good candidate for the surgery. I continued to explore all of the information that I could find before making a decision. I learned that there are many people who were completely satisfied with the surgery. On the other hand, there are also people who have reported regrets. Problems range from severe dry eyes, irritation, blurry, distorted vision and glare. Many people will need reading glasses following the surgery and some have to go back for more surgery to reach near perfect vision. All things considered, I was beginning to feel that this surgery was a good option for me. One advantage I had was that my near sightedness was in the low range. It is believed that people with higher corrections have a greater risk of complications. It is important to know that people with certain immune diseases are not good candidates for the surgery. Diabetes is one of them. I have shared on my arthritis page that I have a type of arthritis mainly affecting the spine, called ankylosing spondylitis. Even though eye problems are associated with this form of arthritis, my eyes are considered healthy and show no signs of iritis; which is an inflammation of the eye. It was determined that my arthritis did not disqualify me from having the surgery. Since I knew several people that had successful surgeries, this really helped me to make my decision. Last August 9th, I finally had the surgery and I am pleased to report that it was a complete success. For the first time since grade school, I can see without wearing glasses or contact lenses. Following the surgery, my eyes were dry for a few days but I haven't had a problem since. Before the surgery my vision was negative 350 in each eye. Today I have 20/20 vision and I am absolutely amazed.
It's been wonderful.
Are you considering having Lasik eye surgery or do you know someone who is? I hope that you will consider checking out the following links to learn as much as you can before making your decision. Five years ago when I had my hysterectomy, I was scared when I read reports from people who regretted having the surgery. I began to feel the same way when I read the reports that some people gave after having Lasik surgery. These surgeries are definitely not for everyone, but so many people really do benefit from having them. This page was created to help you to make an informed decision. Only you can decide whether or not this surgery is right for you. Feel free to contact me if you would like to ask me more about my surgery. I would be happy to try and answer any additional questions that you might have.
