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LASIK in Los Alamitos, Orange County
Similar to PRK, LASIK uses an excimer laser to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Today, LASIK is the most popular form of laser vision correction.
The Procedure:
The primary difference between LASIK and PRK is in the first step of the procedure. Rather than removing a patient’s epithelium during PRK, in LASIK, your doctor will use an instrument called a microkeratome to create a small protective flap of corneal tissue that is gently lifted back. Next, an excimer laser applies a cool beam of light, which gently reshapes the cornea, allowing images to be more sharply focused by the retina to correct the refractive error. Finally, the protective flap created in the first step is gently placed back in its original position and is allowed to heal.
Patients will not experience pain during LASIK and postoperative discomfort is minimal. In addition, patients will experience a quicker return of clear vision than with PRK. Like PRK, most patients achieve 20/20 vision with LASIK.
The Advantages:
LASIK can be a viable option over PRK due to the following:
- Optimum visual recovery is achieved sooner
- Lower post-operative discomfort
- Fewer post-operative visits required
- Can correct a wider range of refractive errors
- Recovery time is typically shorter
Ideal LASIK candidates should be at least 18 years of age, have healthy corneas and a relatively stable eye prescription. People with certain medical conditions or pregnant and nursing women may not be good candidates.
Risks & Complications:
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved in undergoing LASIK, including:
- Infection or dry eye
- Reaction to the anesthesia
- Over- or under-correction
- Night glare or halos
- Light sensitivity
- Corneal haze
Many of these risks can be prevented completely, or if they occur, are treatable and temporary. The vast majority of patients who undergo LASIK experience only the advantages as a result. Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding LASIK.
