What to Expect After LASIK Eye Surgery
February 10th, 2016
With advancing technology in ophthalmology, people with certain visual impairments are now given a chance to eliminate the use of prescription glasses or contact lenses in their daily lives. One of these innovations is LASIK Eye Surgery, an elective procedure that is performed to correct visual impairments like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It involves creating a flap and re-shaping the underlying corneal tissue. The corneal flap is then put back in place.
While success and safety rates remain high, like any other surgery LASIK has associated risks and complications. However, with thorough patient education and comprehensive assessment, doctors can best match patients’ individual needs to the appropriate corrective actions.
Once you have conducted research on the procedure and held a LASIK consultation with Dr. Lee, you may be wondering what you can expect after your LASIK procedure takes place.
Here are some things you can expect after undergoing LASIK Surgery:
Quality of Vision
LASIK Eye Surgery can be done in an outpatient basis and in about 5-10 minutes. Vision may be blurry or hazy in the first few days after the LASIK procedure. Others experience visual disturbances like halos and glares in their vision, but these can completely disappear in three to six months. Dry eyes occur in some patients, but this can be managed through prescribed eye drops. According to Eye Surgery Education Council (ESEC), 96% of patients report achieving their desired level of visual acuity. Adjustments and further management may be done to maintain good visual acuity as an individual ages.
Of course, quality of vision depends on how the cornea responds to laser vision correction and the overall healing condition of the eyes after surgery. Health conditions like diabetes can significantly affect quality of vision. Not everyone will achieve 20/20 vision but LASIK Eye Surgery has been successful in eliminating vision corrective devices in majority of patients who undergo the procedure.
Possible LASIK Complications
American Journal of Ophthalmology reported that less than one percent of patients experience serious eye complications like detached flaps and corneal swelling. In flap problems, flaps may not adhere to the surface if done with poor surgical skills. This can cause epithelial ingrowth and irregular astigmatism. Irregular astigmatism results from a laser vision correction that is not centered on the flap. On the other hand, epithelial ingrowth is when outer corneal cells begin to grow under the flap causing visual disturbances. This is why it is crucial to find an experienced surgeon. Dr. Danny Lee specializes in refractive surgery, with an outstanding reputation for LASIK surgery in Huntsville and Decatur, Alabama.
Follow-up Exams
Routine eye exams are of utmost importance after surgery. This allows for prompt intervention of possible complications, and may continue for up to six months. It is also important to remember that LASIK cannot prevent aging of the eyes, such as cases of presbyopia. Patients are also instructed on eye care to prevent possible eye infections.
LASIK Surgery continuously helps people achieve a better vision. This innovation shows how the medical field is evolving with technology, yielding better results and enriching lives. Regardless, it pays to do your part and conduct research.
Here in areas of Huntsville and Decatur, Alabama, Dr. Lee’s clinic deeply cares for your vision. Call us today to schedule a consultation; it’s time to discuss how we can achieve the vision you deserve.
