LASIK, which stands for laser assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a corrective eye surgery used to treat common vision conditions.  The main conditions for which LASIK is indicated include:

1. Nearsightedness, or myopia, a vision condition where a person can see clearly up close but can’t see clearly at a far distance;

2. Farsightedness, or hyperopia, a vision condition where one can see more clearly far away than up close;

3. Astigmatism, which is a vison condition caused by an uneven corneal surface and effects both far and near vision

These three conditions can also be corrected with glasses and contact lenses.However, LASIK is an option for those patients who would prefer not to wear glasses or contact lenses. There are also important medical reasons for choosing LASIK over wearing contact lenses or glasses. For example, contact lens wearers are at greater risk for developing eye infections or corneal ulcers than patients who have undergone LASIK eye surgery. Eye glasses, while relatively safe, may be uncomfortable to the wearer and, of course, they only afford corrected vision within the frame of the lenses.  People with strong prescriptions often expereince distortion in their peripheral vision through glasses.

As its name implies, LASIK eye surgery involves the use of a laser. LASIK eye surgery is an important advance in ophthalmological surgery that requires only a short recovery period and involves minimal pain. As with any surgery, there are some risks to be aware of. These risks include over- or under-correction of the eye conditions for which treatment is being sought, the appearance of halos around light sources, the development of double vision or blurred vision after the procedure, and extreme dry eye. All of these potential complications, however, can be treated with corrective procedures. Moreover, very few patients experience any side effects and the vast majority are quite satisfied with the results of LASIK eye surgery.

While technological advances have certainly played a part in reducing the occurrence of complications, it is equally important to select a qualified surgeon when considering LASIK surgery Detroit for example.  When selecting a LASIK surgeon, be sure to ask for references. It is also important that a LASIK surgeon be certified to perform LASIK eye surgery. Be sure to discuss with your ophthalmologist any medical or health conditions that may affect your eligibility for LASIK and your recovery from the procedure. For example, postoperative treatment after LASIK eye surgery typically involves the prescription of antibiotics so it is important to disclose any allergies ahead of time so that the appropriate steps may be taken.

Considering the low incidence of complications and the high incidence of patient satisfaction, LASIK eye surgery is an important corrective procedure that offers a long-term solution to common ophthalmological conditions.

If you live in the Detroit area and are searching for information about LASIK, visit LASIK Detroit for more advice and recommendations.