What Does LASIK Eye Surgery Do?
What does LASIK eye surgery do? That’s a common question for people to have when they’re first interested in vision correction. The short answer is that LASIK can correct common vision problems, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances).
At LASIK Experts in New Jersey and Philadelphia, we use the latest technology in vision correction to offer our patients superior visual results. Below, we explain in detail how LASIK works to restore clear vision, so you can decide if this life-changing procedure is right for you.
How LASIK Eye Surgery Works
Vision problems are often caused by an error in how the eye refracts light. In order to see, light rays pass through the structures of the eye (including the cornea and crystalline lens) and are focused into an image on the retina in the back of the eye.
However, if the light bends incorrectly, this prevents a clear image from forming and can cause blurry or distorted vision.
Oftentimes, the reason the light refracts incorrectly when passing through the eye’s structures is due to a misshapen cornea. Normally, the cornea is dome-shaped, like a ball. But in people with myopia, the cornea is often too curved or long. Similarly, in folks with hyperopia, the cornea isn’t curved enough or is too short.
Glasses and contact lenses offer a short-term solution to vision problems. When worn, the glasses or lenses change the way light is refracted as it enters the eye, resulting in a clear picture. But they don’t solve the root of the problem.
LASIK eye surgery, on the other hand, offers a long-term solution because it can correct the shape of the cornea itself. There are different types of LASIK procedures. But what they have in common is that a laser is used to reshape the patient’s cornea to correct the refractive error.
A series of diagnostic tests are performed prior to the procedure, so the surgeon knows exactly what shape the cornea must take to correct the existing visual problems during the surgery.
The Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery
As with any surgery, LASIK can seem intimidating. But LASIK is one of the safest elective medical procedures available. It generally offers a quick recovery, and most patients can see the visual improvement immediately after their surgery. Some of the benefits of LASIK include:
More freedom in your daily life.
LASIK can reduce or eliminate your dependency on glasses and contact lenses. You won’t be bothered by the hassles associated with glasses and contacts, thereby offering you more freedom and convenience in your everyday life.
Saves you money in the long-run.
After LASIK, you’ll have fewer costs associated with glasses and contact lenses. It’s a one-time investment that can offer a lifetime of savings. Use our savings calculator to see for yourself.
At LASIK Experts, we offer a Lowest Price Guarantee as well as flexible financing plans to make paying for LASIK easier. You may also be able to use your FSA or HSA to cover the cost of your procedure, too.
It's normally a short recovery.
You don’t need to pause your life for LASIK. Most of our patients are back to their normal routines within 24-hours of their surgery, and don’t have to take time off of work and/or school. The side effects are often minimal (such as dry eyes, glares, and halos), and patients should see an improvement in the weeks after LASIK as their eyes heal.
Additionally, the procedure itself is usually quick. It usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes in total, with the laser used on each eye for only a matter of seconds. The procedure is also virtually painless.
When you come in for a free consultation, our team at LASIK Experts will explain in detail how LASIK works and its benefits. We’re happy to address any questions or concerns you may have. Most people are excellent candidates for LASIK. If you’re in New Jersey or Philadelphia, we invite you to book a free consultation today.