LASIK

What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure that can benefit patients with nearsightendness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reducing dependence on spectacles and contact lenses. The procedure involves permanently reshaping the cornea (the transparent part of the eye in front) with Excimer laser.

How is LASIK done?

During LASIK, the eye surgeon creates a thin surface flap of the cornea, exposing the underlying tissues (stromal bed) to which the Excimer laser beam is applied to reshape the cornea and change its power. Once the laser ablation is completed, the surgeon gently replaces the corneal surface flap.

What are the risks and side effects of the procedure?

LASIK is a relatively safe procedure with very low chances of complications. Most of the complications are minor and include over or under correction, temporary development of red spots over the eye, dry eyes, decreased contrast sensitivity and glare. The patients are carefully screened before the surgery to exclude patients who have more than normal chances of developing complications.

Am I a candidate for LASIK?(important, on home page)

Yes you are if
• You are above 19 years of age
• Your refractive error ( power of glasses) has been stable for 6 months
• The power of your glasses is
1. Myopia more than -1.5D
2. Hypermetropia more than +1D
3. Astigmatism more than +/- 1D

How do I know LASIK is safe for me?
All potential LASIK candidates are screened for risk factors and suitability for the procedure. The LASIK work- up entails a thorough eye examination especially the cornea for corneal thickness ( Pachymetry) and corneal shape ( Topography), the eye pressure and the retina. Patients who are found unfit are then counseled for other modalities such as PRk, ICL etc.

What happens during the procedure?
The procedure is typically performed under topical (eye drop) anesthesia. During the surgery you will be asked to lie down on the operating table and focus on a light above.
The entire LASIK procedure lasts only 20 minutes and the laser delivery itself takes less than a minute. You can return home a few hours after the surgery and go back to work after one to three days.

How to prepare for the procedure?
You will be asked to undergo a few tests for evaluation of your fitness for the procedure which requires a period of one week. Also:
• Discontinue using contact lenses 1 to 2 weeks before the investigations
• Inform your doctor about medical problems and allergies
Arrange for someone to drive you home on the day of surgery. Bring along a pair of dark glasses for use after the procedure.

What is Wavefront or Customized LASIK?
CustomVue LASIK is n new innovation in LASIK surgery which allows the procedure to be customized to each particular patient. While routine LASIK corrects the refractive error  Wavefront LASIK also attempts to correct finer irregularities in the eye. Correction of these finer irregularities means a better quality of vision with reduced symptoms of glare, haloes, ghost images and improved contrast sensitivity.