LASIK is a laser eye surgery that can permanently reshape the cornea of your eye to correct your vision. This eMedTV page discusses various eye conditions that the surgery can fix and offers details on the expected results and possible complications.
In preparing for LASIK eye surgery, you must remove contact lenses three days to three weeks beforehand. This eMedTV article offers precautions on preparing for the procedure, as well as tips for the day of the surgery.
On the day of LASIK surgery, as this eMedTV resource explains, you will be able to ask any last-minute questions and request medication if you feel anxious or nervous. Since anesthesia isn't involved, you can eat and drink as normal that day.
In LASIK eye surgery, a laser technique is used to reshape the cornea of your eye to help correct vision. This eMedTV article explains the steps involved in this surgery, the intended goals, and expected results of the procedure.
When recovering from LASIK surgery, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours, you must frequently apply eyedrops. This eMedTV segment describes symptoms you may experience and offers tips on the healing process and preventing infections.
Improved eyesight with 20/40, 20/20, or 20/25 vision are the expected results with LASIK. This eMedTV page further discusses what you can expect with this procedure, including potential vision quality problems and the need for enhancement surgery.
As this eMedTV page explains, while it is generally a safe procedure, there are possible problems that may occur with LASIK. Complications may include inflammation, severe infection, severe bleeding, and flap complications.
As explained in this eMedTV article, there are many vision correction surgeries aside from LASIK. Alternatives may include photorefractive, radial, or astigmatic keratectomy. Another alternative to surgery is to continue using glasses or contacts.
What if you don't have LASIK? As this eMedTV article explains, there are alternatives to laser eye surgery, so LASIK is only an elective procedure. Before deciding to have the surgery, however, it is important to be aware of the possible risks.
