What Does LASIK Fix?

What Does LASIK Fix?

LASIK is a form of laser vision correction that’s used to permanently treat nearsightedness and, in certain cases, farsightedness and astigmatism. Although LASIK is a particular type of laser vision surgery, the acronym has become (somewhat inaccurately) synonymous with all laser eye treatments. The following delves into the intricacies of LASIK, what it is, and the types of vision problems that it can successfully be used to treat.

All About LASIK

•     LASIK: what does it stand for?
•     What vision problems can LASIK fix?
•     When can’t LASIK be carried out?

LASIK: what does it stand for?

LASIK stands for Laser in situ Keratomileusis and, as the name suggests, is a surgical procedure carried out with the assistance of specially designed laser devices. The procedure improves eyesight by removing tissue from the cornea to permanently change its shape. This reduces or removes the need to use eyeglasses or contact lenses.It’s the most commonly carried out method of laser vision correction, with around 718,000 surgeries carried out per year in the US alone.

What vision problems can LASIK fix?

LASIK is most commonly used to treat nearsightedness (myopia). In certain cases, it can also be used to treat farsightedness and/or astigmatism.  

When can’t LASIK be carried out?

While LASIK is suitable for many people, certain reasons may deem a person unsuitable for the procedure. These include:

• Having a very high refractive error or severe nearsightedness
• You suffer from dry eyes
• You have certain types of eye disease (such as keratoconus)
• Having an active eye infection
• Your prescription has yet to stabilize
• You’ve suffered an eye injury or a disorder of the eyelid
• You have large pupils
• You suffer from glaucoma or cataracts
• Those who suffer from certain medical conditions, such as those that impair the body’s ability to heal or that affect the immune system

This is not an exhaustive list, as there are other reasons that the surgery might not be suitable.  Because every procedure is carried out on an individual basis, your eye surgeon will determine your suitability for LASIK. If it’s not advisable, they will let you know the possible alternatives. However, LASIK surgery has advanced greatly in recent years and is now used to treat more advanced nearsightedness, as well as certain farsightedness and astigmatism. For those who’ve been told that they’re unsuitable in the past, that might not be the case today. This makes it well worth partnering with a LASIK expert to discuss your options.

What are the Alternatives to LASIK Eye Surgery?

•     Other laser vision correction treatments

Other laser vision correction treatments

LASIK has become the overarching term for all kinds of laser vision correction. However, it describes a very particular procedure (albeit the most commonly carried out). There are different types of laser vision correction treatments, including:

• SMILE: This stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction and is a similar procedure that also removes tissue from the cornea. However, the amount removed is slightly greater and is often taken from deeper within the organ.
• PRK: Standing for Photorefractive Keratectomy, this is a surface laser treatment that removes a very fine layer of tissue from beneath the cornea. This heals and regrows, becoming smoother as it does so. This causes the eye to work at a more optimal level.

Other treatments that are similar to PRK include LASEK and TransPRK.

Considering Lasik? Contact the West Boca Eye Center Today

Laser vision correction is a life-changing procedure, and you naturally want it performed by a highly qualified expert. Brent Bellotte MD, lead clinician at the West Boca Eye Center, has dedicated his career to the advancement of LASIK and other cutting-edge laser eye surgeries. Indeed, he’s revered by his peers and widely acknowledged as being one of the leading ophthalmologist specialists in such surgeries, both in the USA and around the world.Patients of Dr. Bellotte and the WBEC benefit from academic-grade facilities and the latest proven procedures for laser vision correction and all other eye specialties.Find out more at (link) and get in touch to discuss your requirements today.