The LASIK Procedure
LASIK (Laser-Assisted-In-Situ Keratomileusis) is an outpatient procedure which uses a cool beam of light from a laser to reshape the cornea or the front surface of your eye.
LASIK can be used to treat low to moderate vision impairment. Most frequently, it is used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is the most frequently performed elective surgery in the United States.
The LASIK Procedure
- Anesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the area.
- A protective flap is created and gently lifted to reveal the inner corneal tissue.
- Computer-controlled pulses of cool laser light are applied to the inner layers of the cornea. When the laser pulses, it makes a ticking sound. The inner corneal layer is reshaped with the laser to mimic your contact lens or glasses prescription.
- The surgeon gently replaces the flap and aligns it to its original position. It heals naturally and securely.
- The procedure itself lasts less than 5 minutes and patients are typically in and out of the laser suite in less than 15.
- Some patients recover within a few hours, while some recover in a few days, ready to enjoy their new and refined daily life.
Am I a Good Candidate?
There are general prerequisites required to qualify for a LASIK procedure. South Jersey Eye Physicians will ensure that you meet all of the recommended conditions for LASIK with a thorough eye exam and consultation. We will make sure that the minimal risk factors that are linked to LASIK are reduced significantly through a thorough analysis of your situation.
General LASIK Requirements
Dr. Nachbar adheres to the following guidelines when qualifying candidates for LASIK. For a safe and successful outcome for our LASIK patients, we will abide by the following requirements.
- Ensure that the LASIK candidate is at least 18 years of age. Our doctors will examine the eye to determine if it has developed and matured properly.
- Vision must remain in a stable state for at least one year.
- Certain eye infection or injuries cannot be present for at least one year.
- Autoimmune disorders may disqualify a candidate from a LASIK procedure.
- History of herpes infections in the eye may disqualify a candidate, as LASIK may set a potential reoccurrence of the infection.
- Scarring present on or around the cornea may disqualify a candidate for LASIK.
- SJEYE ensures that candidates must understand the minimal risks involved with a LASIK procedure.
- SJEYE cannot perform LASIK during times of nursing or pregnancy.
- Those individuals with dry eye syndrome may not be good candidates for LASIK surgery.
How to Get More Information
To schedule your no-obligation FREE LASIK consultation, or for more information regarding the LASIK procedure, please schedule an appointment or call 1-800-380-0111.