LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is one of the most commonly performed laser refractive surgeries in the U.S. LASIK helps people who wear glasses or contacts reduce or even eliminate their dependency on corrective eyewear by reshaping the cornea. If you are considering LASIK, visit our Bronx optometrist for a consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery.
What is LASIK Surgery?
Responsible for focusing light on your retina, corneal irregularities contribute to nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. If the cornea is incapable of focusing light directly on the retina, it often focuses light elsewhere. This results in blurry, distorted vision indicative of a refractive error. Opting for LASIK surgery means your eye surgeon can reshape your cornea using laser technology to improve corneal refraction of light to the retina.
Preparing for LASIK Surgery
If your optometrist approves LASIK for you, a pre-examination is needed to evaluate corneal and overall eye health. If certain ocular conditions or disorders are found during your pre-op exam, your optometrist may recommend you delay LASIK or consider other refractive treatment options.
Good candidates for LASIK in the Bronx are those who do not have:
- Progressive eye diseases causing deterioration of your cornea or vision.
- Eye infections such as uveitis, keratitis or herpes simplex
- Chronic dry eye (LASIK could increase eye dryness)
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Abnormally large pupils
How is LASIK Surgery Performed?
After using a local anesthetic to numb the eyes, your eye surgeon will create a tiny flap in your cornea using a laser beam. Raising this flap allows the surgeon to reshape the cornea using the same laser beam. The procedure takes less than 45 minutes and can be done in-office or as outpatient surgery.
Following completion of LASIK in the Bronx, patients are allowed to go home and rest. A patch or other eye protector is worn during the first 24 to 48 hours. Some LASIK patients enjoy better vision within a few days of having surgery while vision improvement may take slightly longer in other patients.
Make an Appointment with Our Bronx Optometrist for a LASIK Consultation
To learn more about LASIK surgery, please call Pelham Parkway Vision Center in the Bronx, NY at 718-829-2160 to schedule a consultation appointment with our optometrist.
