LASIK Eye Surgery: The Procedure

Imagining having your eye operated on might make you a bit squeamish. After all most of us complain when we end up having an eyelash in our eye, so it's understandable how disturbing it can be to consider having an operation on your eye.

However, LASIK eye surgery is a pain free, very quick procedure that involves just a few steps:

Pre-op Appointments: Before you are considered a viable candidate for LASIK surgery, your doctor will need to examine your eyes. He or she will check your health as well as question you about any pre-existing medical conditions that you may have that will affect the surgery. If you suffer from dry eyes, the doctor will want to treat that before you will be considered for the procedure.

Light sedation: LASIK surgery does not require the patient to be put under general anesthetic. In fact, you are very much aware of what is happening during the procedure. Your doctor will place a few eye drops into your eye several moments before the operation is set to begin. A local anesthetic is designed to numb the area of your eye.

Creating a flap: Once you are comfortable and your eye is numb, the surgical procedure will begin. Your doctor will then cut a small flap using either a laser or an instrument directly on your eye. You don't have to be concerned with closing your eye during the procedure, as the doctor will have placed a device on your eyelids to keep them open. You won't feel any discomfort during this time as the area is relaxed and numb from the local anesthetic that was administered.

Resurfacing: The laser will then come into use. The doctor will position you directly under the laser so that he can remove the necessary tissue from your eye. This is what will directly affect your sight. By removing a certain amount of tissue in a very specific area, your eyesight will be corrected.

Resting: Immediately following the procedure there will be a period of time where the doctor will request that you rest quietly. You will do that in his or her office and then at home for a day or two. It's important to follow the advice of your doctor carefully when it comes to recovery.

Follow-up appointments: After the surgery, your doctor may prescribe a mild pain reliever if you are experiencing some discomfort. This is normally not warranted though. You'll need to return for a follow-up visit so the doctor can check the healing process as well as check your vision. It's important to attend any follow-up visits as it helps the doctor pinpoint any problems.

LASIK eye surgery is a very effective treatment for many eye problems. It's also quick and virtually pain-free. By following your surgeon's advice and paying special attention to your eyes in the days following the procedure you can be assured that your eyes will remain healthy for years to come.