LASIK surgery has a 99% success rate, which is why 700,000 patients undergo it every year. The surgery replaces eyeglasses and contact lenses for hundreds of thousands of people.
By using laser technology, LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) reshapes the cornea of the eye. The operation is widely performed because of its safety and accuracy. Several patients have reported improved vision immediately after treatment, reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses.
Laser eye surgery is becoming increasingly popular among celebrities and influencers since they no longer worry about wearing contact lenses while doing makeup videos or reading scripts. However, it is important to note that several common things can affect your eyesight.
Popular celebrities with Lasik eye surgery include LeBron James, Nicole Kidman, Dennis Quaid, Kim Kardashian, Lisa Ling, Drew Carey, Elton John, and Bonnie Tyler.
Those who dislike wearing glasses often use contact lenses as a temporary solution. This is not always easy for people, especially if they use a computer all day. Contact lenses are uncomfortable for people with dry eyes, so they are not a long-term solution. LASIK and SMILE eye surgery procedures can fix your vision permanently, thanks to technological advancements.
What is a LASIK Procedure?
This procedure does not require needles or stitches. Before surgery, your surgeon will administer anesthetic drops to anesthetize you, and if needed, they will give you a light sedative. Speculums are placed in the eye once you are comfortable to prevent blinking.
A thin flap in the eye lens is created by using computer-guided lasers to reshape your cornea. The healing process begins after the flap has been repositioned. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes. Often Lasik procedures use technology like the Zeiss Visumax, which is used in the LASIK SMILE eye procedure.
Type of Lasik Eye Procedures
Lasik has improved over the past 20 years since it was first introduced. Here is a list of popular procedures and the types of vision problems they can treat.
PRK
Treats: Myopia, Astigmatism, Presbyopia
It works by reshaping the cornea in the same way as LASIK, but the reshaping is done on the surface once the epithelial cells are removed.
LASEK
Treats: Myopia, Astigmatism, Presbyopia
It reshapes the cornea but creates an ultra-thin “flap” of epithelium, which is pushed off to one side of the cornea, where it remains attached to the eye
LASIK
Treats: Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism, Presbyopia
The first step is to use a femtosecond laser that creates a flap in the superficial cornea. Then a second laser called an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea under the flap.
SMILE
Treats: Only Myopia
This procedure uses a femtosecond laser to create a lens-shaped disc, which is called a lenticular, from the tissue within the cornea. It is the least invasive of all laser eye procedures since no flap is created during the surgery.
Top 10 Do´s and Don’t´s
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding aftercare after laser eye surgery. These steps will help you recover and heal quickly.
2. Use Your Eye Drops and Medication as Directed.
Don’t discontinue using any eye drops or medications prescribed to you by your eye surgeon unless directed otherwise.
3. Relax Your Eyes for a Moment.
Your eyes must rest and heal after laser surgery, even if you are wired and full of energy.
4. Electronic Devices Should be Avoided.
You should not use your phone, tablet, television, or computer for 24 to 48 hours following surgery. When watching videos, the eyes may strain and dry out.
In the early stages of healing, the eyes may need lubrication.
5. Avoid Reading Books and Magazines.
You must refrain from reading any print media while you are recovering. You strain your eyes by focusing on the text.
6. You shouldn’t take a Shower.
Showers generate too much steam and hot water that can damage your eyes after surgery. Bathing after surgery is allowed, but not showering. A sauna, steam room, and swimming pool are also not recommended.
7. Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection.
Your eyes will be sensitive following surgery when they have been dilated. Light should be avoided indoors and outdoors while your eyes heal.
8. Don’t Wear Eye Makeup.
It is recommended that you do not wear eye makeup for a week or two after laser eye surgery.
9. Don’t Engage in Sports or Exercise.
Taking a break from exercising or playing sports is the best thing you can do now.
10. Attend all Eye Surgeon Appointments.
After your surgery, you will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment. After surgery, a follow-up is common three to four weeks later and six months later. The healing process should be monitored and progressing according to plan.
LASIK or other laser surgery recovery requires taking care of your eyes and following the recommended aftercare and restrictions.
