Saturday, 4 June 2016

Important Information About Lasik San Antonio Clients Should Understand

By Anna Edwards


Lasik (laser in-situ keratomileusis), is an eye procedure used to correct abnormalities of vision such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, farsightedness and presbyopia among others. The main aim of the procedure is to change the shape of the cornea which in turn changes the angles of reflection and refraction. If they have plans of undergoing Lasik San Antonio residents need to understand a number of things on the procedure.

Before the operation, one should see an ophthalmologist (eye specialist). The specialist takes a clinical history of the condition in question and examines the affected eye. Some of the things that the doctor will be seeking to assess at this time include pupillary dilation, intraocular pressure and corneal thickness among others. If underlying medical conditions are identified, the operation will either be postponed or cancelled.

Your doctor will give you a set of instructions on how to prepare for the operation once you have been confirmed as a candidate. Wearers of permeable contact lenses need to stop wearing them three weeks before they are seen by their ophthalmologist. If putting other types of contact lenses, the stoppage should be done three days before. Another important precaution that should be undertaken is the stoppage of blood thinners.

This type of operation can be performed in an outpatient department with ease and without complications. This is mainly because local anesthesia in the form of eye drops or a few injections is the main form of anesthesia that is required except in very rare circumstances. You will be requested to fix your gaze on a certain point so as to properly position the cornea.

The laser is focused on the area of interest and used to fashion two thin flaps from the corneal. The underlying tissue (the stroma) is shaped through a process known as ablation before the flaps are closed. The amount of laser that is needed for this action is generated by a special computer software. This helps prevent unwanted injuries on other parts of the cornea.

There are several side effects that may arise from this procedure. Discomfort may be experienced on the first and second day and is mainly characterized with itchiness. Other common problems include dryness of eyes, double vision, challenges of night travel and visualization of halos. Artificial tears are usually given to help with the dryness. A procedure known as punctal occlusion may also be done for the same.

After Lasik patients usually reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. A number of them may not even need them afterwards. Generally, improvements are noted within a day or two. There is no need for stitches or bandages as is the case with many other types of operations. The doctor will prescribe some antibiotics to help keep infections at bay as you continue to recover.

As you age, some visual abnormalities may recur which may necessitate a repeat of Lasik. In about 96% of patients, this is hardly necessary. It is important to bear in mind that not all visual abnormalities will be corrected using the procedure. Patients with severe nearsightedness or extremely thin corneas, for example, do not qualify as candidates.




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