LASIK is a refractive surgery that is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism, no matter if you have a different indication or a combination of them in each eye.
LASIK is currently the most common refractive eye surgery in Canary Islands, therefore, since CanaryDoctor We offer you an approach to the most frequent doubts that patients make to the leading ophthalmologists in Canary Islands.
Also known as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction, LASIK uses a laser to reshape the cornea, which is responsible for clear vision. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, and vision usually improves to 20/20 vision within a couple of days of surgery.
How does LASIK work?
LASIK is an outpatient procedure, taking about 15 minutes for surgery on both eyes and an hour in total with recovery. A topical anesthetic drop is used and there is no need for bandages or stitches after the procedure. The doctor will start by stabilizing the eye and then making a small flap in the outer layer of the cornea. Then, with access to the underlying tissue, he uses a laser to reshape the corneal tissue and recloses the flap, which will heal on its own. The nature of the corneal remodeling depends on the type of refractive error.
What to expect during and after LASIK?
During the procedure, you may feel some pressure on your eye while the laser is working. Immediately after, you will likely experience some blurring and burning or itching, patients are advised not to rub their eyes for anything in the world. For the return home, you will be given protective shields to protect your eyes and you will need someone to drive you. You will also be prescribed medicated eye drops for a week or so to aid healing and prevent infection. One of ours ophthalmologists may also recommend artificial tears to moisten the eyes and keep them comfortable in the days after the procedure.
The day after surgery you will be asked to visit the specialist for a check-up and to see if you can drive. By then, most people experience an improvement in vision, although for some patients it may take a few days or even a week.
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Your eyes may also be sensitive to light for a day or two. You'll likely be advised to rest for a day or two and refrain from strenuous physical activity for about a week until further healing occurs.
Most people achieve at least 20/20 vision after surgery, although this can vary and there are cases where 20/40 vision is achieved or where people continue to wear glasses or contact lenses with a much lower graduation.
For some, it can take weeks or even months for vision to fully stabilize. Occasionally, after a few months, patients experiencing less than perfect results may be scheduled for enhancement or touch-up surgery to further correct vision.
How do you know if you are a good candidate for LASIK?
The ideal candidate for LASIK is a patient over the age of 18 with generally healthy eyes. Since the procedure involves reshaping the cornea by removing some of the tissue, it is not ideal for people with a thin cornea or any type of corneal condition or disease. Patients with chronic dry eyes may also be disqualified as LASIK can often exacerbate these symptoms.
During a comprehensive eye exam, one of our featured ophthalmologists will assess your eligibility by looking at the overall health of your eye, including the cornea, pupil, moisture in the eye, the type of refractive error you have, and if you have any other eye conditions.
For the right candidate, LASIK can offer a lifestyle enhancement by providing clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. If you are interested in laser surgery in Tenerife and Las Palmas, click and find out more!
