Currently, LASIK or “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis” is the only keratomileusis procedure that is performed frequently. Keratomileusis involves altering the shape of the corneal tissue with the help of an excimer laser, which is a powerful ultraviolet laser. This laser eye surgery is performed by ophthalmologists to correct different types of visual impairment. LASIK is the preferred treatment for patients with refractive error, as the procedure involves quick recovery and minimal pain overall.
LASIK surgery takes full advantage of technology. For example, a computer system tracks the position of the patient’s eye 4,000 times per second, while lasers make the desired incisions. It may seem like a dangerous procedure, but it’s time to debunk this myth. LASIK surgery is a completely safe procedure that is performed with high precision. That is, the laser carves the corneal tissue in a finely controlled manner. LASIK surgery is not as cumbersome compared to other types of eye surgery and has a relatively low frequency of complications.
Although LASIK surgery is performed with the patient awake and functional, the eye surgeon usually administers mild sedative and anesthetic eye drops. Regardless of the type of visual impairment, altering the shape of the cornea is a viable solution. In general, the procedure has very few side effects and offers instant results. However, some complications can arise depending on the extent of the patient’s refractive error and other irregularities in the corneal tissue.
LASIK eye surgery, with excellent technology at your disposal, is improving at a rapid rate. However, there is no conclusive evidence about the chances of long-term complications due to surgery. Although relatively rare, some complications can arise, namely corneal infection, flap slippage, haze, halo, or glare. An important point to keep in mind is that this laser assisted procedure is irreversible.
LASIK has gained popularity due to its improved efficiency and precision. The procedure also boasts the smallest complication statistics relative to other eye surgeries. With only a 5% complication rate, LASIK seems like a safe enough procedure to correct your visual impairment.