LASIK Eye Surgery at Optimax: procedure, benefits, and differences

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery has revolutionized vision correction, offering millions of people worldwide a chance to achieve clearer vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of LASIK, its procedure, long-term benefits, prerequisites, and compare it with another common vision correction procedure, LASEK.

LASIK is a refractive surgery aimed at correcting common vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, to alter its focusing power and improve vision.

Before undergoing LASIK, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to assess your eligibility for the procedure.

During the free consultation at your local Optimax clinic, detailed measurements of the cornea are taken using advanced imaging technology to create a precise map of its surface.

Once our medical team has assessed your suitability for treatment, you will be booked in for treatment.

Lasik eye surgery takes about 10/15 minutes per eye and it’s performed in few simple steps:

• Corneal Flap Creation: A thin flap is created on the cornea using a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. This flap is gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
• Laser Reshaping: An excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea by removing precise amounts of tissue according to the pre-determined measurements.
• Flap Replacement: After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned, where it adheres naturally without the need for stitches.

Patients typically experience improved vision immediately after LASIK, with minimal discomfort. Complete recovery may take a few days to weeks.

LASIK offers significant improvements in vision: 99% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, reducing or eliminating need for glasses or contact lenses and enhancing their overall quality of life.

LASIK boasts a relatively quick recovery period, allowing patients to resume normal activities within a few days of the procedure.

The effects of LASIK are generally permanent, providing lasting vision correction for many years.

While LASIK offers remarkable benefits, not everyone is an ideal candidate for the procedure. Some of the prerequisites include:

• Stable Vision: Candidates must have stable vision for at least one year before undergoing LASIK.
• Healthy Eyes: Individuals with certain eye conditions such as severe dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, or cataracts may not be suitable candidates.
• Realistic Expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of LASIK.
• Age and Prescription: Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a stable prescription within the acceptable range for LASIK.

While LASIK and LASEK are both laser eye surgeries aimed at vision correction, they differ in their approach and the recovery process.

LASIK involves creating a corneal flap to access the underlying tissue for laser reshaping, resulting in a quicker recovery time and less discomfort compared to LASEK. LASEK, on the other hand, involves the removal of the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) before laser reshaping, which may lead to a longer recovery period and increased discomfort during the healing process.

LASIK eye surgery offers a safe and effective solution for individuals seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses. With its precise and innovative approach, LASIK continues to transform the lives of countless individuals by providing clearer vision and a renewed sense of independence.

If you have any questions regarding Lasik eye surgery at Optimax please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We are more than happy to discuss queries with you over the phone (0800 093 1110) or email (enquiry@optimax.co.uk).