What You Should Know Before LASIK

What Is LASIK and What Can It Treat?

 

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors by reshaping the cornea. This allows light to focus properly on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

 

LASIK can treat:

๐ Nearsightedness (myopia)

๐ Farsightedness (hyperopia)

๐ Astigmatism

It is considered a long-term solution, allowing many patients to live without glasses or contact lenses.

 

Types of LASIK Procedures

Advancements in medical technology have introduced several LASIK techniques, each with unique features:

 

1. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is one of the earliest forms of laser vision correction and is still widely used.

๐ No corneal flap is created

๐ The outer layer of the cornea is removed before laser reshaping

๐ The surface regenerates naturally over time

 

 

2. Microkeratome LASIK

This technique involves the use of a blade to create a corneal flap.

๐ A mechanical blade is used to separate the corneal layer

๐ Laser is then applied to reshape the cornea

 

3. Femto LASIK

A bladeless LASIK technique using laser technology.

๐ A femtosecond laser is used to create the corneal flap

๐ Provides higher precision and safety

 

4. ReLEx SMILE

An advanced, minimally invasive laser technique.

๐ No blade and no large flap

๐ A small incision is made to remove a lenticule

 

Who Is Eligible for LASIK?

 

You may be a suitable candidate if:

๐ You are 18 years or older

๐ Your vision prescription has been stable for at least 1 year

๐ You do not have uncontrolled eye diseases

๐ Your cornea is healthy and suitable for surgery

๐ You are not pregnant or breastfeeding

 

 

How to Prepare Before LASIK

 

Proper preparation is essential to ensure safety and optimal results:

๐ Consult an ophthalmologist and undergo a comprehensive eye examination

๐ Stop wearing contact lenses

๐ Soft lenses: stop at least 7 days prior

๐ Hard lenses: stop at least 14 days prior

๐ Avoid acne medications for at least 1 month (consult your doctor)

๐ Stop aspirin or blood-thinning medications 7-10 days before surgery (as advised)

๐ Wash your hair and face before the procedure (avoid water contact afterward)

๐ Get enough rest and avoid makeup on the day of surgery

 

Post-LASIK Care: How to Take Care of Your Eyes

 

After LASIK, proper care is crucial for recovery:

๐ Wear protective eye shields as instructed

๐ Avoid water, dust, and rubbing your eyes

๐ Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and dryness

๐ Avoid eye makeup for at least 2 weeks

๐ Limit screen time and activities that strain your eyes

๐ Avoid swimming, diving, or sweating heavily for 2-4 weeks

๐ Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes

๐ Attend all follow-up appointments

 

 

Choosing the Right Hospital for LASIK

 

Although LASIK technology is now highly advanced and safe, choosing the right provider is essential.

๐ Experienced ophthalmologists

๐ Advanced medical technology

๐ Personalized treatment plans

๐ Higher safety standards

 

Conclusion

 

LASIK is a safe and effective solution for vision correction, but understanding the types of procedures, preparation steps, and aftercare is essential for the best outcome.

 

 

 

 

 

source : Bangkok Eye Hospital
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team