Frequently asked questions on Lasik Surgery ICARE Eye Hospital, Noida,

Frequently asked Questions on LASIK

Q.        What is LASIK ?

A.        LASIK is an acronym for "Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis". It involves reshaping of the cornea to get rid of spectacles.

Q.        How does it work ?

A.        In myopia, (common refractive error treated with laser) parallel rays of light are focused in front of the retina (part concerned with perception of image) i.e. the eye has a higher refractive power. This is corrected with the help of laser by decreasing the refractive power of cornea (the major refractive surface).

Q.        How safe is LASIK for Indian eyes ?

A.        Globally the scientific studies the have confirmed the safety of Lasik in myopia as high as 12 dioptres. The same is true for Indian eyes. The procedure though simple, requires a careful evaluation. In few the complications are seen in persons with high myopia.

Q.        What are the chances of weakening of cornea ?

A.        The Lasik involves ablation of corneal tissue decreasing its thickness. Studies have shown that no damage to structural integrity of cornea occurs if a residual thickness is of 250 microns or more. Lasik should not be done on individuals whose cornea is thin.

Q.        Can I get rid of my spectacles ?

A.        Yes, if you are above 21 years of age, your spectacle number is constant since the last two years, and your corneal thickness is sufficient to allow ablation.

Q.        What if I am wearing contact lenses ?

A.        You can undergo Lasik surgery after 4 weeks of stopping use of contact lenses.

Q.        What are my chances of spectacle free life ?

A.        The chances of your getting rid of glasses depend on the degree of myopia. There is almost total freedom from glasses in myopia upto 10 diotres - where maximum number of patients belong. In high degrees of myopia, it may not be feasible to correct the refractive error entirely.

Q.        Is the procedure painful ?

A.        No. The laser is done after locally anaesthetizing the eye with eye drops. You may experience a pressure sensation but no pain during the procedure.

Q.        What postoperative precautions do I have to take ?

A.        You will have to use eye drops for 4 weeks. It is advisable not to splash water on your open eyes or rubbing them for at least 2 weeks. Dusty conditions are to be avoided for the same duration. You may have to use lubricating eye drops for a period of time. There is no restriction in reading, bathing, watching TV or eating any food.