LASIK FAQ
What is LASIK?
LASIK (“laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis”) is a surgical procedure that uses an excimer laser to sharpen vision for people living with nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The outpatient procedure involves creating a thin flap on the surface of the eye that can be folded back, allowing a laser to vaporize microscopic parts of the cornea and refocus light on the retina for clearer vision. Patients experience little or no discomfort during the procedure and are able to return home shortly after the surgery.
Is LASIK surgery right for me?
LASIK procedures can effectively treat individuals with mild to severe cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Ideal candidates for LASIK are at least 18 years old, have had healthy, stable eyes for the last year, and do not have other eye disorders. A good candidate should also understand the risks involved with LASIK and have realistic expectations of the results. To find out whether you are a good candidate for laser surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Boothe to discuss your medical history.
Why is LASIK the preferred corrective surgery procedure today?
LASIK offers numerous benefits over previous methods of corrective eye surgery, such as PRK. Because stitches are not needed for healing, post-operative risks are much lower and recovery times following LASIK procedures are faster. Unlike PRK procedures, the corneal surface is not affected during LASIK, which enables patients to experience clear vision more quickly following surgery. LASIK is also more effective than previous methods in addressing severe cases of optical error.
What should I expect on the day of my procedure?
Dr. Boothe will begin by administering a numbing drop to your eye and using a speculum to gently hold your eyelids open. After creating a corneal flap on your eye, Dr. Boothe will ask you to look into a light allowing the laser pulses to begin reshaping the cornea. This process may take anywhere from a few seconds up to a minute, depending on the severity of the refractive error in your eye. Dr. Boothe then restores the corneal flap so it can begin to heal. You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home, as your vision may initially be blurry immediately following the procedure.
Is the procedure painful?
An eye drop anesthetic is applied to numb the eye during the procedure. Patients experience little or no discomfort during the procedure. No needles or stitches are required for any part of the surgery, which also makes recovery time shorter and less risky. To speed up healing and avoid complications, patients are advised to continuously hydrate the eye with medicated drops.
Are there risks with LASIK?
Every surgical procedure carries some level of risk. According to clinical studies, less than 1 percent of LASIK patients experience any complications that would reduce quality of vision. No complication from LASIK has resulted in blindness. All of the surgical procedures at the Boothe Laser Center are performed in a medical environment under Dr. Boothe’s direct supervision. The use of advanced technologies also ensure the highest possible safety and accuracy during the procedure.
How soon can I see results?
Results will vary from patient to patient. Vision may initially be blurry after surgery, though some report immediate improvements in their eyesight. Within a few hours, your vision should begin to clear up and you should notice notable improvements in your eyesight. Many eventually experience eyesight that is better than 20/20.