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.