Are you tired of wearing glasses or contacts? Laser eye surgery might be the solution for you. It’s a safe and effective way to correct your vision and reduce your dependence on corrective lenses. At Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita, KS, we’re committed to providing our patients with the latest technology and expertise in laser eye surgery. In this article, we’ll explain how laser eye surgery works, what to expect during the procedure, and how to prepare for it. So, let’s dive in!
This procedure, also known as refractive surgery, is a surgical procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea of the eye. By reshaping the cornea, the laser can correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
There are two main types of laser eye surgery: LASIK and PRK. Both types of surgery use a laser to reshape the cornea, but the way they do it is different. LASIK stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.” During LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a flap on the surface of the cornea, which is then lifted to access the underlying tissue. The laser is then used to reshape the cornea, and the flap is replaced to heal naturally.
PRK stands for “photorefractive keratectomy.” During PRK surgery, the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea to access the underlying tissue. The laser is then used to reshape the cornea, and a contact lens is placed on the eye to help it heal. Whichever option you choose, you will receive qualified guidance from our specialist to ensure you have a smooth and successful procedure.
Before the procedure, you’ll be given numbing eye drops to help prevent any discomfort. The procedure itself typically takes around 15-30 minutes per eye, depending on the type of surgery. You’ll be awake during the procedure, but you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax. The surgery is painless and quick, making it an excellent option for patients with low pain tolerance.
During the procedure, the surgeon will use a laser to reshape your cornea. You’ll be asked to look at a target light to help keep your eye in the correct position. After the procedure, you’ll be given eye drops to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. You’ll also be asked to wear a protective shield over your eye to help prevent any accidental rubbing or touching. These measures are only temporary. Most patients can go about their lives as normal very soon after the procedure.
Our lead ophthalmologist is Dr. Reena Patel. With years of experience and numerous medical achievements behind her, Dr. Patel is well qualified to provide patients with the care they need to achieve long-lasting results.
Ideal candidates for this procedure are individuals over the age of 18 with stable vision and healthy eyes. This means that their vision prescription has not changed for at least a year, and they do not have any eye diseases or conditions. A consultation with our experienced eye surgeon can determine if a person is a good candidate for the surgery.
People might consider this procedure to correct vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Glasses or contact lenses can be a hassle to wear and maintain, and this surgery can provide a permanent solution to improve visual acuity and reduce reliance on corrective lenses.
Before the procedure, you’ll need to undergo a comprehensive eye exam to determine your candidacy for the surgery. You should stop wearing contact lenses for a certain period of time before the exam and surgery, as contacts can change the shape of your cornea and affect the accuracy of the measurements.
After numbing eye drops are applied, the surgeon will create a flap in the cornea using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is then lifted, and the laser is used to remove the precise amount of tissue necessary to correct the patient’s vision. The laser is guided by a computer program that takes into account the patient’s unique eye measurements. The entire procedure typically takes only a few minutes per eye. The efficiency of the procedure is also aided by the use of high-quality equipment we use at Wichita Vision Institute.
Following the surgery, the flap is gently repositioned, and a protective shield may be placed over the eye to protect it during the first few days of the healing process. Patients should rest for a few hours following the surgery and avoid driving or any strenuous activity for a few days. It’s important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a quick and successful recovery.
During this short recovery period, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. You should avoid rubbing or touching your eyes and avoid any strenuous activities for a few days. You’ll also need to use eye drops as directed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. If you follow these few, easy, steps, your results will be well worth the wait.
The primary benefit of this procedure is that it can improve your vision and help you see more clearly. Many individuals who undergo this procedure no longer need to wear glasses or contact lenses at all. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who lead an active lifestyle and participate in sports or other activities where glasses or contacts can be cumbersome.
While the upfront cost of this surgery may seem high, it can actually be cost-effective in the long run. Over time, the cost of glasses, contact lenses, and related eye care expenses can add up, making laser eye surgery a more affordable option.
The recovery time for this procedure is typically quick, with most individuals able to return to their normal activities within a few days after the procedure. This is because the surgery is minimally invasive and does not require any incisions.
This surgical procedure can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life by allowing them to see more clearly and participate in activities they may have previously avoided due to poor vision.
The longevity of the results is often a topic of interest for patients considering the procedure. The good news is that in most cases, the results of this surgery are long-lasting and can even be permanent. This is because the surgery is designed to address the underlying structural issues that cause vision problems, rather than simply correcting them temporarily with the use of glasses or contact lenses. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after the procedure, and the results are typically permanent.
Many people feel self-conscious about wearing glasses or contact lenses. This procedure can help improve a patient’s self-confidence by allowing them to feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.
For athletes, this surgical procedure can provide a significant advantage by eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses during sports activities. This can help improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Some careers, such as those in the military or law enforcement, require excellent vision without the use of corrective lenses. This surgical procedure can help improve a person’s eligibility for these types of careers. It can also enhance your ability to reform various other work-related tasks that a lack of good vision may have otherwise prevented you from doing well.
Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective way to correct vision problems and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. By using advanced laser technology and customized treatment plans, Dr. Patel can help you achieve the clear vision you desire. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, schedule a consultation with us at Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita, KS to learn more about the procedure and determine if it’s right for you.