When considering LASIK vision correction, it is important to have appropriate expectations about the procedure. Doing research beforehand and making sure that you’re informed about Bay Area LASIK facilities and the procedures they perform is key to having a successful experience. Below are some frequently asked questions about LASIK eye surgery.
How does LASIK work?
LASIK is a laser eye surgery, performed on the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. During the procedure, a small flap is made in the cornea, and ultraviolet light is used to correct the shape of the cornea. The procedure takes mere minutes. LASIK is extremely safe, and has been being performed for nearly twenty years.
Who is a candidate for LASIK?
While not everyone is a candidate for Bay Area LASIK, most facilities will hold a consultation with any interested patient to examine the eye and determine whether or not each individual is a good fit for the procedure. Some basic requirements for LASIK are: a stable eyeglass prescription worn for at least two years, healthy corneas, no active eye disease, and being at least eighteen years of age. While there is no maximum age for LASIK, aging persons are more likely to have eye diseases such as cataracts and should consult their doctor before considering LASIK.
Does LASIK hurt?
The LASIK procedure does not hurt. Patients are given anesthetic eye drops prior to the procedure to numb the eye, and during the surgery itself, can expect to feel slight pressure. Following the procedure, the eyes may feel gritty, but even this symptom will resolve itself within a few hours. Typically patients are given a prescription pain medication as a precaution, but most LASIK recipients find that an over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil takes care of any discomfort they may experience.
At Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, we offer thorough consultations for patients considering LASIK vision correction. Bay Area LASIK patients can trust our thorough doctor, Dr. Craig Bindi, to provide them with a safe, quality LASIK experience. Go to http://www.2020eyesite.com for more information about our practice and the vision services we provide.
