You probably know a little bit about LASIK after having done some research. You probably understand that it is a great option for many seeking vision correction. But do you understand what it is and how it works? Before you consult with our DC LASIK surgeon, we invite you to learn a little more about the procedure. Your physician will, of course, be happy to walk you through it in greater in depth.
LASIK is a type of refractive surgery, meaning it is meant to correct the eye’s refractive errors. This is done by making a laser-incision into the cornea, which, together with the interior chamber and lens, refracts light. The cornea accounts for two thirds of the eye’s optical power and is extremely important to vision. If the shape of the eye or cornea is distorted, it can cause refractive errors which include, most commonly: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. LASIK in Washington DC involves cutting a flap into the cornea, removing tissue, and reshaping it to improve the eye’s focusing power.
Corrective lenses such as glasses and contact lenses have a similar effect on someone’s vision. However, they have their limitations as they are easily lost and broken. Glasses may not cover a person’s peripheral vision, which is necessary for actions like driving, while contact lenses may irritate the eye, particularly in certain environments such as underwater. LASIK in Washington DC provides a more convenient alternative, with a very high success rate.
Prior to surgery, your DC LASIK doctor will measure the thickness and surface contour of your cornea, to get the precise measurements for your surgery. This process also allows your ophthalmologist to detect any conditions that could affect or prevent your surgery. Once you are cleared, your physician will administer anesthesia along with antibiotic eyedrops to minimize the chance of infection. Lastly, your surgeon may offer you an oral sedative as a pre-medication. The actual surgery only takes about ten minutes per eye.
During surgery, the eye is immobilized using a soft suction ring. From there, your LASIK physician will cut through the cornea’s layers using either a device known as a mechanical microkeratome, or a femtosecond laser. This creates a flap in the cornea, which the doctor lifts to remodel the stroma, the cornea’s middle section. This remodeling is done with the use of an excimer laser, which removes some of the stroma’s extremely thin layers. Once this incredibly precise and finetuned work is done, your doctor will reposition the corneal flap, checking for debris, air bubbles and proper fit for the eye. The flap will naturally adhere in its position until it has healed. Your Washington DC LASIK surgeon will walk you through the appropriate steps for aftercare.
If you would like to know more about LASIK in Washington DC, and learn if it is right for you, we invite you to look around our website, or contact us for a free Washington DC LASIK consultation.
