Since FDA approval in 1999, LASIK eye surgery (also called laser eye surgery) has quickly gained popularity all over the United States. By 2010, LASIK was the single most common elective operation in the world with over 35 million surgeries performed worldwide. In part, the rise of LASIK can be attributed to the endorsement of satisfied patients who have had the surgery. In a 2009 survey, more than 95% of LASIK patients in the U.S. were satisfied with the surgery outcome and would recommend LASIK to a friend.
LASIK eye surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist who uses a laser to reshape the eye’s cornea in order to improve vision. Three of the most common eyesight errors – nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism – can all be corrected by LASIK. While LASIK technologies vary from surgeon to surgeon, the most advanced technique is an all-laser approach which provides more accuracy and greater patient comfort.
At Eye Clinic of Austin, we use this advanced all-laser approach. First, our team utilizes a digital mapping system to create a precise 3D map of the cornea’s surface in order to detect abnormalities that may prevent a successful LASIK surgery. During the procedure, a combination of the Intralase™ laser and the Wavelight Allegretto excimer laser are used in reshaping the cornea. The surgery itself usually only takes about 20 minutes. Recovery after LASIK eye surgery is fairly rapid and most patients can see without glasses or contacts within a few hours after surgery.
Refractive errors corrected by LASIK stay corrected for the rest of your life. After the age of 45, however, a condition known as Presbyopia can develop. You may need reading glasses at that time although even presbyopia can be corrected with a special LASIK technique known as monovision that gives patients the ability to see both close up and far away.
For more information about the LASIK process, watch this video with interviews from past patients and Eye Clinic of Austin’s ophthalmologist, Thomas Henderson, M.D. We also offer free LASIK consultations which allow you an opportunity to ask questions and we determine if you are a candidate for LASIK.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LASIK
https://faculty.tuck.dartmouth.edu/images/uploads/faculty/ron-adner/18EIS_Main_Project_-_LASIK_Paper.pdf