What is the Purpose of Lasik Eye Surgery?

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What Is the Purpose of LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK—laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis—is a popular outpatient procedure designed to permanently correct refractive vision errors by reshaping the cornea.

It aims to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses by allowing light to properly focus on the retina.

How LASIK Corrects Vision

  • A femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap.
  • The flap is lifted, and an excimer laser reshapes underlying tissue to correct vision errors.
  • The flap is repositioned, acting as a natural bandage that heals without stitches :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

Which Vision Problems Can LASIK Treat?

  • Myopia (nearsightedness): corrects for clearer distance vision;
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness): improves near vision;
  • Astigmatism: smooths irregular corneal curvature;
  • Presbyopia‑focused LASIK (monovision): corrects one eye for distance, one for near use :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Main Benefits of LASIK

  • ✔️ Rapid visual improvement—most patients achieve 20/40 or better, and over 90 % reach 20/20 vision :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
  • ✔️ Quick procedure—typically takes 10–15 minutes for both eyes, with same-day recovery :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
  • ✔️ Minimal discomfort—topical anaesthetic drops eliminate pain during surgery :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates are:

  • Aged 18+ (preferably 21+, with stable vision for ≥1 year);
  • Free from serious eye conditions like keratoconus or severe dry eye :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8};
  • Not pregnant or nursing;
  • Wearing glasses or contacts due to refractive errors.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

  • Dry eyes—temporary for most, chronic in a small percentage;
  • Light disturbances—glare, halos, night vision issues in some cases :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9};
  • Rare flap complications, infections, or corneal ectasia :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10};
  • Vision may change over time due to ageing—e.g., presbyopia :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

LASIK vs Other Refractive Surgeries

Compared to PRK, LASIK offers quicker visual recovery and less initial discomfort. Alternatives like LASEK or implantable lenses suit patients with thin corneas or unsuitable candidates :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

What to Expect: Pre- and Post-Op

Before Surgery

  • Stop contact lenses days/weeks in advance;
  • Attend detailed eye exam—with corneal mapping and thickness checks :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13};
  • Arrange for transport and avoid lotions or perfumes on surgery day.

During Surgery

  • Topical anaesthetic drops numb the eye;
  • An eyelid holder and suction device prevent blinking;
  • Laser reshapes cornea within seconds;
  • Flap is repositioned—dressing unnecessary;
  • Entire procedure is brief and painless :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

After Surgery

  • Use post-op antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops;
  • Protect against bright light and avoid eye rubbing;
  • Vision typically clears within a day or two, with full stabilisation over weeks to months :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15};
  • Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and address issues promptly.

FAQs About LASIK

Q1: Is LASIK permanent?

It permanently reshapes the cornea, but natural ageing (e.g. presbyopia) may necessitate reading glasses later :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.

Q2: Will I feel pain?

No. Patients generally describe pressure but no pain, thanks to numbing drops :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.

Q3: How soon can I see clearly?

Most notice vision improvement immediately or within 24 hours, with gradual refinement over a few weeks :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

Q4: Can it correct astigmatism?

Yes—LASIK reshapes the cornea’s curvature, making it effective for mild to moderate astigmatism :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

Q5: Is LASIK safe?

Generally yes—with success rates over 90%. However, some patients report persistent dry eye or vision issues. Inform yourself and choose a reputable clinic and surgeon :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.

Conclusion

LASIK’s primary purpose is to correct refractive errors—myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism—by sculpting the cornea for sharper vision and less reliance on corrective eyewear.

It offers many benefits—rapid improvement, minimal discomfort, and long-term clarity—and is suitable for many, but not all, vision correction candidates.

If considering LASIK, consult an eye specialist for a full evaluation, discuss potential risks, and choose a skilled surgeon. With proper care, LASIK can offer life-changing vision improvements.

Explore more about eye health in our Eye Health section or check our site map.

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