LASIK Surgery- Diagnosis, Procedure and Recovery

What Conditions Does LASIK Treat?

LASIK is primarily used to correct certain refractive vision problems resulting from light not properly concentrating on the retina. These conditions include:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Myopia occurs when the eye is too long or the cornea is overly curved, causing light to concentrate in front of the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, distant objects seem blurry, while close-up objects are seen more clearly.
• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Hyperopia is the opposite of myopia. It occurs when the eye is too short or the cornea is too flat, causing light to concentrate behind the retina. People with hyperopia usually have better distance vision but may struggle with close-up tasks.
• Astigmatism: Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It can also be present alongside myopia or hyperopia.

What Is The Procedure Of LASIK Surgery?

LASIK surgery procedure generally involves the following steps:

• Numbing the Eye: On the day of the LASIK eye surgery, your surgeon will apply anesthetic eye drops to numb the surface of your eye. This helps to minimize discomfort and pain during the procedure.
• Placing a suction ring and eyelid speculum on the eye: The surgeon will use these devices to keep your eye in the proper spot and stop you from blinking.
• Creating the Corneal Flap: The surgeon will use a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser to create a thin flap in your cornea. This flap allows access to the underlying corneal tissue.
• Reshaping the Cornea: The surgeon then uses an excimer laser to extract a specific amount of corneal tissue, precisely reshaping the cornea to fix your refractive error. The excimer laser utilizes a cool ultraviolet light beam to remove the tissue without inducing heat, thus minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

Replacing the Corneal Flap: After the cornea is reshaped, the eye specialist carefully repositions the corneal flap back to its original place. The flap sticks without stitches due to its natural adhesive properties

Who Should Consider LASIK Surgery?

LASIK surgery is a safe and effective option for people who have certain refractive vision problems and meet specific criteria. Not everyone is the right candidate for LASIK, so it’s important to have a comprehensive eye examination and evaluation by an ophthalmologist to determine your eligibility. Here are some factors that can help determine who should consider LASIK eye surgery:

• Stable Prescription: LASIK is most effective for people with a stable prescription, meaning their vision has not significantly changed in the past year. Therefore, if your prescription is still changing, it is best to wait until your vision stabilizes before considering LASIK.
• Age: LASIK is typically suggested for people over the age of 18 (ideally over 21 years old). Therefore, ensure you are at least 18 before considering LASIK surgery for vision problems.
• Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, or Astigmatism: LASIK is mainly used to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. If you have any of these refractive errors, LASIK surgery might be the most suitable option for you.
• Healthy Eyes: Candidates for LASIK surgery should have healthy eyes with no significant eye conditions or infections that could meddle with the healing process. You can consider LASIK surgery if you have healthy eyes.
• Stable General Health: Before considering LASIK eye surgery, candidates should ensure that their overall health is stable and free from conditions that could impair healing or increase the risks associated with surgery. If you have uncontrolled diabetes or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, etc., you may not be the right candidate for LASIK surgery.
• Realistic Expectations: LASIK candidates must have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. While LASIK surgery can significantly reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, it may not assure perfect vision, and some people may still need glasses for specific tasks. Therefore, opt for LASIK surgery if you have realistic expectations about the procedure.
• Not Pregnant or Nursing: Women who are pregnant or nursing should not consider LASIK surgery and wait until after this period, as hormonal changes during pregnancy can impact vision.
• Adequate Corneal Thickness: LASIK involves reshaping the cornea, so candidates should have sufficient corneal thickness to safely accommodate the procedure. You can consider the LASIK procedure if you have thick and healthy corneas.

What Are The Benefits Of LASIK Surgery?

Some of the major advantages of LASIK include:

• Improved Vision: The primary benefit of LASIK is enhanced vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Patients experience a considerable reduction in nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, resulting in better and sharper vision.
• Quick Results: LASIK provides quick results. Many patients see progress in their vision within the first 24 hours after the procedure, and the full results are often realized within a few days.
• Minimal Discomfort: LASIK is a relatively painless procedure. It is because anesthetic eye drops are utilized to numb the eye so the patient doesn’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, some patients might feel slight pressure during the surgery, but discomfort is generally minimal.
• Fast Recovery: LASIK surgery recovery time is relatively short. Most patients can restart normal activities within a day or two after the procedure.
• Reduced Dependence on Glasses and Contacts: For many people, LASIK can significantly lower or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses in their day-to-day activities.
• Long-lasting Results: The results of LASIK eye surgery are generally permanent, meaning you won’t need to undergo the procedure again in the future. However, it is important to remember that vision can change with age, so reading glasses may still be needed for presbyopia as you age.
• Improved Quality of Life: Improved vision can lead to an enhanced quality of life. Many LASIK patients feel more confident, active and can better participate in various activities without using glasses or contacts.
• Safe and Proven Procedure: LASIK has been performed for many years and has a high success rate. The procedure is considered safe and effective when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon and on suitable candidates.

Affordable procedure: LASIK operation is an affordable procedure. Due to rapid advancements in technology, the cost of surgery has decreased dramatically over the past few years.

How To Prepare For LASIK Surgery?

Before undergoing LASIK surgery, preparing yourself physically and mentally is important to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some ways to help you prepare before LASIK eye surgery:

• Choose a reputed surgeon and healthcare institution: Research and select a skilled, board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in LASIK. Look for patient reviews and testimonials to know their LASIK success rates and patient satisfaction.
• Schedule a comprehensive eye examination: Your surgeon will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to decide if you are a suitable candidate for LASIK and to evaluate your eye health. They will also measure your eye prescription, corneal thickness, and other suitable parameters.
• Stop wearing contact lenses: If you wear lenses, your surgeon will likely recommend you stop wearing them for a specific period before the surgery. This is because contact lenses can temporarily change your cornea’s shape, and your eyes must return to their natural state for exact measurements.
• Dress comfortably: On the day of the surgery, wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing any accessories around your face that could interfere with the surgery.
• Arrange some time off work: Plan to take some days off work and avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting, jogging, cycling, etc, for a week or as your eye surgeon recommends. Resting your eyes is essential for proper healing.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Abstain from consuming alcohol or smoking in the days leading up to the surgery, as these substances can slow the healing process.
• Avoid makeup and creams: On the day of your LASIK eye surgery, avoid wearing any makeup or creams around your eyes. These products can raise the risk of infection during and after the procedure.
• Arrange transportation: You should not drive yourself home after the surgery, as your vision might be blurry after surgery. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home.
• Follow pre-surgery instructions: Your eye surgeon will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions. This might include not eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the procedure. Make sure you follow the instructions properly.
• Discuss medications with your doctor: Inform your surgeon about any medications you take, such as over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medicines need to be temporarily discontinued before the LASIK operation.
• Plan for post-operative care: Arrange for someone to help you during the first 24 hours after the surgery. It is because your eyes might be sensitive and slightly uncomfortable, so having someone to help you with everyday tasks can be very helpful.
• Be Informed: Make sure you fully understand the risks and advantages of LASIK surgery. Discuss any problems or questions you have with your surgeon before the day of surgery.
• Stay calm and relaxed: Feeling nervous before the surgery is natural, but stress and anxiety can impact the surgery and your recovery. To stay calm and relaxed, practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Have realistic expectations: Understand that while LASIK eye surgery can significantly improve your vision, it may not assure perfect vision or eliminate the need for reading glasses as you age. Discuss your expectations with your doctor to clearly understand the possible results.
• Inform your surgeon of any changes: If you experience any changes in your health or eye condition before the surgery, inform your surgeon instantly. They will determine if any adjustments to the procedure or timing are required

Remember, every individual’s case is unique, and your surgeon will provide personalized instructions based on your eye health and other factors. Following these guidelines will help secure a smooth and successful LASIK surgery and improve your chances of achieving clear vision without glasses or contact lenses.

What To Expect After LASIK Surgery?

For most LASIK patients, improved vision is noticeable almost directly after the procedure. But as with any surgical procedure, there will be a recovery period, so it is essential to be patient and careful as your eyes heal. Your eyes will begin to heal immediately after your LASIK procedure, but it is normal to experience some hazy vision and fluctuations in your overall vision during the first weeks or even months following LASIK. However, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently to encourage proper healing and lower the risk of complications. Some of the post-operative tips to follow after LASIK surgery include the following:

• Take a nap for a few hours immediately after the surgery: Sleeping or just resting with your eyes closed will reduce discomfort and enhance recovery.
• Use prescribed eye drops: After the surgery, you must use the eye drops as prescribed by your eye surgeon to prevent complications such as infection and flap dislodgement. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection, steroid eye drops to ease inflammation, and lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to eliminate the irritation. However, always leave a gap of five to ten minutes between two medications.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes: Abstain from touching or rubbing your eyes for at least two weeks after the surgery, as this can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of infection. If you experience itching, use artificial tears as advised by your surgeon.
• Wear protective eye shields: If your surgeon suggests it, wear protective eye shields or a clear plastic shield while sleeping for the first 4 to 5 nights after the surgery to prevent accidental rubbing or touching of the eyes.
• Rest your eyes: Give your eyes sufficient rest during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Avoid reading, watching screens, or any activities that may weaken your eyes.
• Wear dark glasses or sunglasses: When outdoors, mainly in bright sunlight, wear sunglasses or dark glasses for at least a week after the surgery to save your eyes from extreme light and reduce sensitivity.
• Avoid strenuous activities: Refrain from strenuous exercises or activities that could cause sweat to get into your eyes. In addition, avoid activities that have a risk of eye injury.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated, which can also help maintain proper tear production and prevent dry eyes.
• Avoid swimming and hot tubs: Avoid swimming pools or hot tubs for some weeks to minimize the risk of infection.
• Avoid eye makeup: Avoid wearing eye makeup for at least two weeks after the surgery. Do not apply any creams or lotions around the eye. This lowers the possibility of accidental injury to your corneal flap, foreign particles entering your eyes, or infection from contaminated makeup products.
• Avoid driving: It is best to avoid driving for at least a week after the surgery. However, you might be instructed by your doctor to avoid driving for longer periods. This depends on how your eyes are healing.
• Attend follow-up appointments: Make sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your eye surgeon to monitor your healing progress and manage any concerns.
• Inform your doctor of any issues: If you experience unbearable pain, sudden vision changes, or any unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon instantly.

What Are The Risks And Complications Of LASIK Surgery?

LASIK surgery is typically considered safe and has a high success rate for improving the patient’s vision. However, like any surgical operation, it does hold some risks and potential complications. It is important to be mindful of these before deciding to undergo LASIK. Some of the risks and complications associated with LASIK eye operation include the following:

• Dry eyes: Some people with LASIK surgery experience a reduction in tear production that can cause eye discomfort and blurred vision. Almost half of all LASIK patients experience some degree of temporary dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome after LASIK surgery is usually temporary and can be effectively treated using lubricating eye drops or other measures. Dry eye problems usually resolve when the healing of the eye is complete, which can take up to six months. 
• Undercorrection or overcorrection: In some circumstances, the desired vision correction may not be fully accomplished, leading to either undercorrection (still needing glasses) or overcorrection (overcorrected vision).
• Visual disturbances: Some patients may encounter glare, halos, double vision, or starbursts around lights, mainly at night. These effects are usually temporary but may last in rare cases.
• Regression: In some possibilities, the results of LASIK may regress over time, requiring further adjustments or enhancements.
• Corneal ectasia: This is a rare but severe complication of LASIK surgery where the cornea becomes thin and bulges, causing vision distortion. It may need additional treatments or even corneal transplants in extreme cases.
• Flap complications: The LASIK procedure involves the creation of a thin hinged flap on the cornea’s front surface. If the LASIK flap is not made correctly, it may fail to stick properly to the eye’s surface, or microscopic wrinkles called striae could form in the flap. These flap complications can lead to optical abnormalities and distorted vision.
• Infection: Infections rarely occur after LASIK surgery. Still, it is vital to use medicated eye drops as directed by your surgeon after your procedure to avoid infection and prevent inflammation as your eyes heal.
• Reduced night vision and contrast sensitivity: Some patients may face reduced night vision or contrast sensitivity after LASIK.
• Haze or scarring: In rare chances, the cornea may develop haze or scarring, impacting vision quality.
• Epithelial ingrowth: It is a relatively uncommon complication after LASIK operation. In this condition, the top layer of the cornea grows under the flap. If it grows centrally, it may lead to a decrease in vision. 
• Deep Lamellar Keratitis: It is a rare transient problem that occurs after surgery. Doctors usually notice a fine, white, granular reaction below the flap. This is usually seen at the edges of the flap. Mostly it settles down with topical medications (steroid drops) but rarely may need washing under the flap.

What Is The Cost Of LASIK Surgery In India?

LASIK eye surgery cost in India ranges from Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 1,45,000. However, there are several factors that can impact the overall cost of LASIK surgery in India. Some factors that affect the cost include the following:

• Hospital or Clinic: The choice of hospital or clinic can affect the cost of LASIK surgery in India. Different healthcare facilities may have different pricing structures, which can lead to deviations in the overall cost.
• Reputation of the surgeon: Highly skilled and reputed LASIK surgeons often charge more fees due to their expertise and successful track record.
• Technology and Equipment: The laser technology and equipment used during the procedure can impact the overall cost. Advanced LASIK technologies may come with higher prices.
• Preoperative Evaluation: The pre-operative tests and evaluation, including detailed measurements and mapping of the cornea, can affect the overall cost of LASIK surgery in India.
• Post-operative Care: Some healthcare institutions provide post-operative care and follow-up visits, which can impact the overall cost of the procedure.
• Additional Procedures: Some patients may need additional procedures after their initial LASIK eye operation to acquire the desired visual outcome. These enhancements might incur additional costs.