All About LASIK

LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) have been made available in the United States in 1995. Since then the popularity it gained has continued to mark up reaching to dizzying heights.

Laser assisted eye surgeries have become a routine in the field of medicine that it is even advertised on a variety of media just like selling a casual article of clothing. Ophthalmologists have in fact built their clinics where eye operations are performed inside shopping malls. This gives the public an impression of triviality. It is as if you could undergo a fifteen minute surgery after having your nails done at a nearby salon. After which you could do some shopping and buy your groceries.

True enough the advancements in refractive surgery make eye operations to be performed in such short span of time while safety and accuracy is ensured. However, before one should consider getting one he or she must have substantial knowledge in order to make an informed consent.

Over the years the means of correcting refractive errors have undergone a tremendous change. From a very simple eye surgery during the World War II to the very sophisticated techniques available today. Due to the advancements in technology, there is a wide range of refractive technology to choose from. Even in the field of LASIK, technology has played a great role in providing patients with safer and more accurate methods.

Wavefront LASIK

In a LASIK operation that uses the wavefront technology, mapping the patient’s cornea will be easier for the surgeon. During the procedure, the patient is fully awake but is given a mild sedation. If you choose to undergo this one, you will be asked to stare while a wave of light is being sent to your eye. This will act like a camera taking a picture of your eye. It will send the reflected light back to the LASIK Wavefront sensor. The irregularities in your eye will be read as distortions that will be mapped by a computer. The information will be used by the laser as a guide in treating your eye. Once your eye is mapped, the surgeon will create a flap in your cornea with the use of a microkeratome.

Intralase Technology

For those who want to avoid the scalpels, you could opt for a bladeless method called the Intralase. This procedure does not employ the use of a single scalpel. Instead of the microkeratome, a laser will be used in creating the corneal flap.

Once a corneal flap is available the surgeon then directs a beam of light into your eye. This will reshape your irregular cornea and as a result correction of your defective vision will ensue.

The techniques mentioned above contribute much to the operation’s success. The advancement in technology brings about a safer and a more precise procedure since the surgeon’s ability will be augmented.

Pre-operative Issues

Your sense of sight is very important and having defects in eyesight is such a discomfort. However, do not readily undergo a LASIK operation. Be sure that you have chosen the best ophthalmologist to entrust your eyes to. There are a number of ways to find a good eye surgeon. Conduct interviews of previous patients and find out about your physician’s track record. There are some points that could guide you in choosing the right eye doctor. It is better to be certain of your choices since the area of health is not one that you should gamble.

If the best surgeon seems to be too expensive, try to look at ways that will help you in paying the cost of your surgery. Insurance plans may not cover this particular procedure but some do send representatives to make the negotiation for you. Through this, you may be able to get a LASIK operation at a discounted rate. Also, look into your employment benefits. A number of companies provide flexible spending account to their employees. These accounts may be used in paying for health procedures by the patients. Another thing to look into is the federal policy of your state. Often, elective surgeries are considered tax deductible.

In cases when your fears will make you think twice about undergoing the operation. There are several ways to alleviate your concern. The key to eradicating your irrational fears is by empowering yourself through information.

Post-Operative Concerns

Lastly, you have to abide by your doctor’s instructions. Keep the post operative care to heart. The success of the operation will depend not only to your doctor and the technology but also in the way you take care of yourself.