Laser surgery was approved in 1995 for vision correction. Since that time, improvements in technology and techniques have made it one of the most common elective surgeries in the US. Several different types of laser eye surgery have evolved over the past few years; each one has its own benefits and drawbacks.
One of the most important considerations when having Lasik eye surgery is finding the right doctor. Make sure that your surgeon has done the procedure many, many times, and will be around to help you after the surgery. You don’t want your follow up care left in the hands of a Lasik technician- you want your surgeon to be there for you.
Lasik surgery is great for you if you have mild nearsightedness. If you are severely near or far sighted, have thin corneas, or very large pupils, you are likely a poor candidate for Lasik. Reported side effects include burning from dry eyes, glare and halos at night. These symptoms are reported in up to 3 per cent of post Lasik surgeries.
Wavefront-Guided Lasik adds an automatic measurement to correct distortions in vision. This is a more customized procedure that reduces glare and halo immediately after surgery. Wavefront-guided Lasik accounts for about half of the eye surgeries done today. It is not suitable for people with thin corneas, or people requiring serious vision correction.
IntraLasik Surgery is much the same as traditional Lasik eye surgery. The corneal flap is cut with a laser, rather than a blade. Surgeons may prefer one method to the other, but the outcomes are similar.
Monovision- the surgeon use Lasik to alter one eye for distance viewing, and the other eye for near, or close vision. This is for people who don’t want to wear reading glasses. This procedure may have to be repeated later in life, as the eyesight deteriorates.
If you have considered laser eye surgery, it’s important to check out all the options. The freedom of living without glasses or contact lenses has to be balanced with the potential risks. Contact a reputable surgeon to help you make the decision that is best for you and your eyes.