Home » LASIK
LASIK
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a type of refractive surgery using a laser to treat vision problems caused by refractive errors. A refractive error is when your eye does not refract (bend) light properly.
Light rays must travel through the cornea and lens in order to see clearly. The cornea and lens refract (bend) the light so it lands on the retina. The retina then turns the light into signals that travel to your brain and become images. When a refractive error exists, the shape of the cornea or lens keeps the light from bending correctly. When light does not focus on the retina as it should vision becomes blurry.
With LASIK, a laser is used to change the shape of the cornea. This improves how light is focused on the retina. LASIK is used to treat myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.
LASIK is used to correct refractive error and improve vision. LASIK may drastically reduce the need for eyeglasses and contact lenses.
LASIK Eye Surgery in Austin
- Prior to Surgery: You and your ophthalmologist will discuss your vision needs based on your lifestyle. Your ophthalmologist will thoroughly examine your eyes and make sure you are a candidate for LASIK.
- Test your vision. This is to make sure that your vision has not changed. This will also show how high your refractive error is and whether or not LASIK can be used to correct your vision.
- Check for other eye problems. Your ophtholmologist will make sure you do not have any eye problems that could affect your surgery, or LASIK could make those other problems worse.
- Measure and map the surface of your cornea. Your ophthalmologist will check the thickness of your cornea and make precise measurements of the cornea’s surface. These measurements are used to program the computer based laser used during surgery.
- Measure your pupil size. Your pupil size will also be measured. If your pupil is very large, you could see halos (rings of light) at night after LASIK.
Click the button below to take our LASIK Self-Test today!
What Happens During LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK is performed adjacent to Howerton Eye at Howerton Surgical Center. This is done as an outpatient procedure.
- The eye is first numbed with drops.
- Using a laser, the ophthalmologist makes a paper-thin flap in the cornea tissue and folds the flap back.
- You will be asked to stare at a target above your eye so that your eyes will not move. The cornea is then reshaped by the ophthalmologist using the laser. This special laser instrument has been programmed with measurements for your eye.
- After reshaping the cornea, your ophthalmologist folds the flap back down into position and smoothes the edges. The flap will attach on its own within 2 to 3 minutes.
What Happens After LASIK Eye Surgery?
- A see through plastic shield will be placed over your eye. You will need to wear this shield while sleeping for a couple of days to help protect your eyes. Relaxing and napping after the procedure is recommended to allow your eyes to heal properly.
What are the Benefits of LASIK?
LASIK eye surgery offers numerous benefits that can be life-changing for patients who desire greater visual freedom. From improved vision quality to lifestyle enhancements, the benefits extend far beyond just seeing clearly.
Rapid Results and Recovery
Most patients experience significantly improved vision within a day of the procedure. Recovery is typically quick, with most people returning to many of their normal activities within a day or two. The procedure itself is quick too, only taking only about 15 minutes per eye in most cases.
Freedom from Corrective Eyewear
Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK and are able to eliminate or greatly reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. This freedom extends to activities like swimming, sports, and allows you to wake up with clear vision. Imagine not having to search for your glasses first thing in the morning.
Long-Term Cost Benefits
While LASIK requires an initial investment, it eliminates ongoing expenses associated with vision correction, including:
- Regular prescription updates
- New glasses and frames
- Contact lenses and solutions
- Backuo pairs of glasses
Improved Quality of Life
After LASIK, you will have greater freedom and flexibility in life, allowing you to be more spontaneous and adventurous. For some people, not having to rely on visual aids in their daily lives can make them more confident and comfortable participating in sports and other activities.
Reduced Eye Strain
Many LASIK patients report experiencing less eye fatigue and strain throughout the day. Without the need to focus through glasses or contact lenses, eyes often feel more comfortable during extended computer use, reading, or detailed work. This can lead to fewer headaches and less eye discomfort during daily activities.
Long-Lasting Vision Clarity
Although LASIK cannot prevent any other changes that may happen to your vision later in life, LASIK results are typically long-lasting. If vision changes occur years later, enhancements can usually be made. The combination of immediate results, lasting benefits, and improved quality of life makes LASIK an investment in both your vision and your future.
LASIK FAQs
The eye doctors of Howerton Eye want to help you see clearly. LASIK eye surgery is an outstanding treatment that can correct optical issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatisms.
To learn more about LASIK eye surgery and determine if it is right for you, continue reading below for our doctors’ answers to some commonly asked LASIK questions.
If you’ve been considering LASIK eye surgery, now is the time to act. Contact the team at the Howerton Eye at our Austin, TX location today. We can’t wait to meet you and improve your vision!
