Laser-Assisted-in-Situ-Keratomileusis, better known as LASIK, is a laser vision correction procedure that treats myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. LASIK removes and permanently reshapes corneal tissue with a computer-controlled laser, resulting in images focusing correctly on the retina.
Now in its second decade of helping patients reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses, LASIK can improve a wider range of vision problems than ever before. This enables our physicians to change the lives and the quality of lifestyles for many individuals bothered by or restricted to glasses and contact lenses. Individuals who are least 18 years old and whose glasses or contact lenses have not required a significant prescription change in one year, may be a candidate for LASIK.
Your LASIK Journey
Preliminary Consultation: Patients choosing to have the LASIK procedure performed at Kentucky Eye Care will have at least two visits prior to their procedure. The initial visit is a preliminary consultation with our LASIK counselor and will take 1 to 1 ½ hours. At this visit, we will take initial measurements of your eyes to determine if you are a safe candidate for LASIK. We will provide you with a full understanding of your corrective needs and the options available that fit your expectations and needs. This is a complimentary visit and you will not need to discontinue your contact lenses for this visit.
Comprehensive Exam: The second visit is a full comprehensive examination with your surgeon. Your eyes will be dilated to check the overall health of the eye and to examine for ocular irregularities. Refractive measurements will be taken as well as a pupil assessment, corneal thickness measurements, corneal topography, and tear function analysis to name a few. The doctor will review your medical history, lifestyle, and expectations with you and review your refractive options as well as the procedure. You will need to discontinue your contact lenses prior to your comprehensive exam with your doctor. Soft contact lenses must be discontinued two weeks before your exam, with gas perms discontinued three weeks before. This is important because contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea.
The Procedure: During the LASIK procedure, the laser can be used to permanently treat your distance vision, perhaps even to the point that you no longer need glasses or contact lenses for driving, sports, and other day-to-day activities. However, as you get older, the natural aging process of the eye will make focusing on near objects difficult and reading vision blurry. This condition is called presbyopia. Since the laser used in LASIK has no effect on the natural lens of the eye, it cannot improve near vision problems due to presbyopia. The alternative corrective method is monovision, a technique where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other eye is corrected for near or reading vision. We will fully discuss treatment options with you, and even allow you to try monovision contact lenses before making a decision about your LASIK procedure.
Post-Surgery: After surgery, most patients will experience improved vision immediately; however it will take a few weeks for your vision to stabilize. Although recovery time is short, you will be required to wear protective goggles to sleep in for the first week and will start a series of eye drops (an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and artificial tear). Most patients are able to resume normal activities the next day, with restrictions from swimming, cosmetics, heavy physical activity, and dusty environments.
Ready to start your journey towards clearer vision? Request an appointment.
