LASIK Benefits and Is it Right for You?

By Dr. Sari Gruber

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to improve vision, offering a long-term solution to those who rely on glasses or contact lenses. Whether you are tired of dealing with the hassle of corrective lenses or simply want to improve your vision, LASIK may be a viable option. However, like any medical procedure, it is important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks before deciding whether or not LASIK is right for you.

What is LASIK and How is it Performed?

LASIK is a laser eye surgery used to treat refractive vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The procedure involves using a laser to reshape the cornea—the transparent front layer of the eye—to improve the way light entering the eye is focused onto the retina.

LASIK is an outpatient procedure. Patients are typically awake during the procedure, and the surgeon instills topical numbing drops to ensure comfort. A small flap is created on the cornea, the underlying tissue is reshaped with the laser, and the flap is then repositioned. Most people notice immediate results, with significant improvements in vision within the first 24 hours.

Benefits of LASIK

Reduced Dependence on Glasses and Contacts: One of the main benefits of LASIK is the freedom it offers from glasses and contact lenses. With modern LASIK, patients have an excellent chance of significantly reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses. This is particularly appealing to active individuals who may find glasses or contacts cumbersome during physical activities like sports or exercising.
Short Recovery Time: The recovery process after LASIK is typically very quick. Most people experience little to no discomfort during the procedure, and the vast majority return to normal activities within one to two days. Post-surgery, patients are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes and to follow aftercare instructions. The overall healing period for LASIK is relatively short compared to other forms of surgery.
Fast Procedure: LASIK is known for its speed and efficiency. In most cases, laser time ranges from 30 to 60 seconds per eye, with the entire process taking approximately 20 minutes for both eyes.
High Safety and Success Rates LASIK is considered a safe procedure, with a patient satisfaction rate of approximately 95.4%. In fact, by 2021, an estimated 20-25 million eyes had been treated with LASIK worldwide, making it one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries. Since its inception in 1989, technological advances have enabled LASIK to continually become even safer and more effective. With such a strong track record, LASIK continues to be a trusted option for vision correction.

Potential Risks

While LASIK offers numerous benefits, it is not without its potential risks. Here are a few important factors to consider before deciding to undergo the procedure:

Not Everyone is a Good Candidate for LASIK Although LASIK can benefit many people, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Many factors are considered when determining whether a patient is an ideal candidate for LASIK, such as:

- Age and Stability of Prescription: Patients typically need to be over 18 and have a stable vision prescription for at least one year.
- Advanced Dry Eye: LASIK can exacerbate existing dry eye conditions, making it a poor choice for those with this issue.
- Refractive Errors That Are Too High: If you you are highly nearsighted or farsighted, you may not be a LASIK candidate.
- Keratoconus: This condition causes the cornea to become cone-shaped and is contraindicated for LASIK
- Thin or Scarred Corneas: LASIK requires enough corneal thickness for the procedure to be effective.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes may lead to complications or slower healing after surgery.
- History of Certain Eye Infections: If you have had eye infections in the past, LASIK may not be suitable.
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect vision, making it best to wait until after these periods to consider LASIK.
- Medication: Certain medications are contraindicated and may need to be discontinued for a period pre and post operatively.

Fortunately, even if LASIK is not right for you, there are other options, such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) or ICL.

Post-Surgery Dry Eye: One of the most common side effects of LASIK is dry eye. While post operative dryness is temporary for most, some individuals experience persistent discomfort. If you already suffer from dry eye before surgery, LASIK could make it worse, and this is an important factor to discuss with your doctor.
Halos and Glare: After LASIK, some patients report seeing halos or glare, particularly around lights at night. This can make driving or navigating in low-light conditions more challenging. While these symptoms tend to decrease over time, they can be bothersome for some individuals.
Risk of Flap Injury During the LASIK procedure, a thin flap is created on the cornea. While the risk of flap injury is low, it is still a potential complication. If the flap is not properly repositioned or if the eye is bumped during the recovery period, it could lead to complications requiring additional treatment.

LASIK With Thomas Eye Group

LASIK is a revolutionary procedure that has helped millions of people achieve clearer vision and reduce their reliance on glasses and contact lenses. While the procedure is safe and effective, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks carefully. Factors such as age, eye health, and lifestyle all play a role in determining whether LASIK is a good fit for you.

If you are considering LASIK, it is important to have a thorough consult. With proper guidance and care, LASIK could be the solution that brings you one step closer to clearer, glasses-free vision.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Thomas Eye Group today.

About Sari Gruber, OD

Sari Gruber, OD, is a board-licensed Comprehensive Optometrist serving our Sandy Springs patients. She has more than 14 years of experience specializing in LASIK and refractive surgery.