LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the cornea and improve visual acuity, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses in patients with nearsightedness (myopia). Our fellowship-trained refractive surgeon, Dr. David J. O’Brien, achieves excellent outcomes for his patients. However, the visual result obtained depends on a number of factors, beginning with the patient’s pre-operative prescription.
The Procedure
A mild sedative is offered to the patient. The eye is then completely numbed using anesthetic eye drops. LASIK involves the creation of a hinged flap at the front of your cornea to expose the surface beneath for treatment. This flap is created with a femtosecond laser. Next, the doctor uses an excimer laser to sculpt the exposed corneal tissue to correct the defects identified during your pre-op screening. New laser tracking technology ensures accurate beam placement during reshaping and a more relaxed experience for the patient. This portion of the procedure lasts 20 seconds or less. Afterward, the corneal flap is brought back to its original position where it self-seals. Patients with mild to moderate visual issues will require less corneal sculpting than those with higher levels of correction.
What comes after
While it’s normal for the vision to fluctuate for up to six-months post-surgery, patients are able to resume their normal routines the following day. There are restrictions against swimming and care to be taken when showering or sleeping for one week following surgery.
To find out if LASIK is right for you, call 772-257-8700 to schedule a complimentary consultation with our board-certified fellowship-trained refractive surgeon David J. O’Brien, MD.
Our in-house staff of ophthalmologists will review issues like the severity of your visual problem, the techniques that can help your particular case, and what you may expect to come after in order to help you decide whether LASIK eye surgery is appropriate for you.
If you would like to speak to someone at New Vision Eye Clinic or schedule a consultation or appointment with one of our ophthalmologists, Call us today at 772-257-8700.