Seeing Clearly With Lasik Eye Surgery

Of the five senses, sight may be the most important for many people. LASIK eye surgery corrects most levels of common vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism (overall blurriness). The main benefit of corrective surgery is achieving an independence from wearing glasses or contacts, both of which can cause irritation to the eyes or headaches. With contacts, for example, the cornea is deprived of oxygen. The eyes are more prone to allergies and to red itchiness. The procedure is painless and fast, usually lasting only five to 10 minutes.

Clinical trials were done for ten years prior to the FDA approval of Lasik surgery equipment in 1995. The complication rate cited in large studies is between 0.5 percent and 1.9 percent. Of these, most complications are resolved within a few months and do not affect long-term vision. There have been no reported cases of blindness resulting from laser eye treatment in the United States. All patients are different and results may vary, especially with those who have dry-eye symptoms. Night vision may be adversely affected as well. In extreme cases, the surgery may make one’s vision worse and fixable with corrective lenses. For the most part, a single treatment will work, although it is possible that enhancements may be needed long after surgery.

There are risks with any surgery, but since a computer guides the laser, it is a precise and accurate procedure. In fact, it is the most frequently performed elective surgery in the United States today. As an educated consumer, one should research all available surgery centers and surgeons offering this procedure. With careful patient screening and selection, reasonable expectations, and in the care of an experienced surgeon, most patients will be very pleased with their results.