Have you been wearing eyeglasses for as long as you can remember? Are you tired of wearing contact lenses?Good thing there is now a better way to correct several eye problemssuch as nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism. This is called the LASIK eye surgery. It is a quick and simple operation, which is done by a professional eye specialist or an eye surgeon. An excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea in order to improve the way your eyes focus light rays onto the retina. In case you are interested about this solution, read on as below are more details about LASIK eye surgery.
Learn more about LASIK eye operation:
- This procedure is a popular option to many patients since it is painless. Your eyes will be anesthetized during the operation so you will only feel minimal to zero discomfort.
- Using a laser or a blade, your eye surgeon willcreate a flap that lifts the upperlayer of the cornea. An excimer laser will then be used to reshape the stroma layer of the cornea. The laser will remove the cells according to your unique prescription.
- Your eye surgeon will use an eyelid holder to stop you from blinking. This is to avoid any unnecessary disruption during the operation.
- The LASIK surgery will only take about half an hour or less and you may go home right after the procedure.
Aftercare
After the procedure, you may still feel a little discomfort. Your eyes may feel watery, or feel irritated for a couple of hours, but this is all part of the healing process.You will be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity until the eyes completely recovers. The surgeon will prescribe an eye drops (antibacterial, steroidal) for a week to help with the healing process. Functional eyesight is expectedthe night of surgery or the day after.
To answer your questions about post-operative care, check out the list below for some helpful answers:
When I can start driving again?
Do not drive for the next twenty-four hours after the surgery, or until your doctor has checked your vision and deem safe for you to do so. Therefore, you need to ask someone to drive you home for everyone’s safety.
Can I take a shower after the operation?
Be careful while showering to avoid getting any unwanted substances in your eyes. Keep the water out of your eyes for the first one to two weeks for your peace of mind. If you really need to wash your face, you may usea moist towelto gently wipe your face and the eye areas.When can I go back to playing sports?
Wait at least a week after you surgery before going back or beginning any non-contact sports. This will still depend on the intensity of activity, and your recovery. Be sure to get clearance from your eye surgeon during your follow up visit before starting back on your any non-contact sports or workout. As for activities with strenuous contact like boxing, basketball, or football, they need to be avoided during the first month.
Can I wear make up?
As much as possible avoid wearing any creams, makeup, or lotions around the eyes. This is to prevent unwanted chemicals from infecting the wound. Wait for about 2 weeks or so before using any make up or topical creams. Or wait until your eye specialist gives you a go signal.
Do you need an eye examination to know whether you are qualified for LASIK surgery or not? Get in touch with Atlas Eye today to schedule an appointment.