Do you struggle with impaired sight? If so, you should discuss with your eye doctor the pros and cons of LASIK surgery versus corrective lenses. Each person with a refractive error has a unique set of eye and general health circumstances and lifestyle goals. These require careful assessment by an eye doctor before choosing to undergo surgery. 

What Is LASIK?

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses surgery involves using lasers to reshape corneal tissues. LASIK eye surgery offers permanent vision correction, but the procedure cannot change certain factors that can undermine eye and vision health. 

Some of these factors, such as age, are not modifiable. Some people who undergo this surgical procedure can still experience vision deterioration or weakening later in life. Thus, you should continue undergoing regular eye examinations after the procedure, even if your vision is excellent. 

What Happens During Surgery?

LASIK eye surgery permanently changes the cornea’s shape. An eye surgeon uses lasers, including the femtosecond laser and excimer ultraviolet laser, to create a corneal flap and reshape the corneal tissue. Laser pulses vaporize and reshape a part of the cornea. Afterward, the surgeon replaces the flap on the cornea without the need for stitches. LASIK can treat the following conditions:

• Myopia

• Hyperopia

• Astigmatism

What to Expect After Surgery

Most patients experience immediate vision improvement after surgery. However, it could take about three months for your cornea to heal fully. In the meantime, you should refrain from contact sports, swimming, whirlpools or hot tubs, driving at night, and using makeup, lotions, creams, or perfumes. 

How Effective Is LASIK Eye Surgery?

According to a study that assessed satisfaction and quality of life five years after surgery, about 91 percent of patients were satisfied with their eyesight. About 94.9 percent of them did not require distance vision correction. Less than two percent of patients noticed halos, glares, and other visual phenomena. 

How Long Does LASIK Last?

There is no definite answer to this question. While the surgical effects are permanent, your benefits can decrease over time. The results of LASIK eye surgery last a lifetime for most patients. However, 10 to 12 percent of patients will require an enhancement procedure due to anatomical eye changes. 

The lasting effects of LASIK eye surgery depend on many factors. These include your current age and the medical conditions you may develop as you age that may affect your eyesight. LASIK can only correct the vision problems you had before the procedure. So, it can give you 20/20 vision or better, but it cannot prevent natural eye degeneration. 

What Factors Can Affect Your Vision After the Procedure?

Studies show that vision regression after eye surgery is significantly slower for those over 40 years compared to younger individuals. So, the age at which you undergo the procedure can affect the longevity of your results. 

Also, it is possible for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism to return after LASIK surgery. Glaucoma and other medical problems can also affect your vision. However, you should be able to see perfectly well without correcting lenses.

For more on Lasik eye surgery, call Raleigh Eye Center at (919) 899-2472 for our Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia, offices.