LASIK to correct refractive errors of the eye has never been better. The developments in LASIK technology are nothing short of remarkable. The modern procedure achieves safety, precision, customization, affordability, and rapid recovery of vision. Studies have shown that satisfaction after the procedure is up to 98%. Another study showed that patients who underwent LASIK were more satisfied with their vision after the procedure than with their contact lenses.
Over the past two decades, LASIK has evolved into the most successful elective procedure in the world. Although it has always been successful, improvement of both the excimer laser and the femtosecond laser has resulted in a blade-free all-laser technique. LASIK has long been FDA approved and has also been approved by NASA for their astronauts.
The femtosecond laser forms a precise LASIK flap. This has made LASIK available for more patients by preserving more corneal tissue which improves the safety of the procedure.
Developed in 2002, wavefront technology customized the LASIK technique based on each patient’s unique “reprint.” So, the custom treatment reshaped the cornea and reduced the optical imperfections of the eye. This resulted in better vision and a higher chance of achieving 20/20 vision. Also, the use of an eye-tracker during the laser procedure allows for excellent centration of the laser treatment. This results in more full-proof treatment and a better visual outcome. The first LASIK performed in Fort Worth was at Texas Eye and Laser Center in 1997. Texas Eye and Laser Center have taken great pride in offering these advancements to our patients ever since.
LASIK and its cousin PRK treat refractive errors of the eye. This includes myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and hyperopia (farsightedness). Higher degrees of myopia are now treated. It can also reduce dependence on reading glasses in patients over 40 years of age by treating one eye for distance and one eye for reading (which is called monovision). Although not for everyone, LASIK is a good option to reduce dependence on glasses and contacts.
The first step in LASIK is to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Generally, you should:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have healthy eyes
- Have a treatable refractive error
- Have realistic expectations about visual results from LASIK
- Have a complete and thorough eye exam before surgery
Our goal with each patient is to achieve their best possible vision without glasses. Occasionally some patients may still use glasses for certain visual tasks. For example, while monovision is a good option for many patients, some patients elect to correct both eyes for distance vision and continue wearing glasses for reading or computer work. You can complete a LASIK self-test today!
Are there any side effects after laser vision correction?
- Generally, most patients are driving the day after the procedure without glasses or contacts.
- Depending on your correction there is a chance you might require an enhancement. This may be necessary to correct an over or under correction. This varies in the 2-5% range depending on the patients’ amount of correction.
- You may experience “halos” at night, but this rarely lasts beyond one week.
- Your eyes may be drier following the treatment. We prescribe pre-operative and post-operative artificial tears along with other treatments to reduce ocular dryness.
Where should I go for my LASIK?
- It is very important to select a provider with extensive experience and one that performs the all-laser technique for added safety and precision. You should meet your doctor before surgery and discuss your goals. It is important to discuss your options and to have realistic expectations.
Dr. Jerry G. Hu and Dr. Brian D. Ranelle
Modern LASIK/PRK has never been better to achieve your best vision without glasses. At Texas Eye and Laser Center we are happy to do a complimentary screening to determine if you are a candidate. Are you interested in LASIK and live in the Fort Worth area? Call us for more information or to schedule your complimentary screening at (817) 540-6060.
