Lasik: Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis Eye Surgery

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea of the eye, correcting refractive errors such as near-sightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

For people with different types of vision problems, LASIK can offer specific benefits:

• Near-sightedness: LASIK can correct near-sightedness (myopia) by reshaping the cornea to improve distance vision.
• Farsightedness: LASIK can correct farsightedness (hyperopia) by reshaping the cornea to improve near vision.
• Astigmatism: LASIK can correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to improve overall vision clarity.
• Presbyopia: LASIK is less effective for treating presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision. However, some presbyopia patients may find benefit in a technique called monovision, where correcting one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision is employed.

Here are some of the benefits of LASIK surgery:

1. Improved Vision: Lasik laser eye surgery can improve visual acuity, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Patients report clearer, sharper vision and an enhanced quality of life.
2. Quick Recovery: LASIK is a relatively quick and painless procedure. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a day or two of surgery.
3. Long-Lasting Results: LASIK is a permanent solution for vision correction. Although vision can change over time due to aging or other factors, the results of LASIK are typically long-lasting.
4. Safety: LASIK is a safe and effective procedure with a low risk of complications. Serious complications rarely occur, and successful treatment is possible for the majority if they do arise.
5. Desired Vision: LASIK has many benefits, including correct vision. Around 97% of patients will have their desired vision after LASIK. An enhancement can further increase this number.
6. Minimal Discomfort: LASIK causes minimal discomfort due to the use of numbing drops.
7. Corrects Vision: LASIK typically corrects vision almost immediately or by the day after the procedure.

LASIK does not necessitate bandages or stitches. If your vision changes as you age, adjustments can be made years after the LASIK procedure to further enhance your vision.

After having LASIK, most patients have a dramatic reduction in eyeglass or contact lens dependence and many patients no longer need them at all.

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Written and Verified by:

DR. SHILPI GANG

MBBS (GOLD MEDALIST), MD (AIIMS, NEW DELHI), FRCS (ENGLAND), FELLOW OF ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS, GLASGOW, U.K.

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