Getting tired of having to wear glasses or contact lenses? LASIK for astigmatism might be the procedure you’ve been looking for!
When it comes to refractive errors, LASIK remains one of the most effective and transformative procedures and is the top choice for many individuals who wish to no longer deal with prescription glasses and lenses.
Below, we’ve listed some of the reasons why LASIK is a game-changing procedure for eye health.
What is LASIK and how does it work?
LASIK is a laser-based eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina, leading to clearer vision.
The procedure begins with the surgeon creating a thin flap on the cornea using either a microkeratome (blade) or a femtosecond laser. A specialised excimer laser is then used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue, correcting the refractive error.
The final step involves repositioning the corneal flap, which naturally adheres back without the need for stitches. The entire procedure is typically painless and usually takes about 10–15 minutes per eye.
Most patients experience significantly improved vision within 24 to 48 hours, with further stabilisation over the next few weeks to months. However, results vary, and some individuals may still require glasses for certain tasks, such as reading or night driving.
Why is LASIK for astigmatism a game-changer?
1. Improved quality of life
One of the key benefits of LASIK for astigmatism is a reduced reliance on glasses and contact lenses, allowing for greater convenience in daily life.
There’s nothing worse than struggling to reach for your glasses in the morning or still having to take out your contact lenses at night after a long, tiring day.
Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK, but outcomes vary. Some individuals may still need glasses for certain activities, such as reading or driving at night.
Being able to see clearly without corrective lenses can help you feel more confident and self-assured to take space in social and professional situations.
2. Better eye health
While LASIK does not directly improve eye health, it eliminates some risks associated with contact lens use, such as infections and irritation. However, it may cause temporary or long-term dry eye symptoms in some patients.
Eye infections related to contact lens use can be avoided after LASIK, but LASIK itself may increase the risk of dry eye syndrome, particularly in the first few months post-surgery.
3. Cost-effective solution
LASIK may seem like a substantial investment at first, but it can lead to more savings in the long run.
That’s because you won’t have to spend money on maintenance, repairs, and other related supplies, which definitely add up over time if you think about their total costs. LASIK does pay for itself within a few years, as many would say.
4. Enhanced productivity and security
With LASIK, individuals often experience greater convenience and comfort in daily activities, without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. However, productivity improvements are subjective and depend on personal experiences.
When it comes to your security, LASIK makes it easier for you to drive at night and navigate dimly lit roads due to improved visual clarity.
5. Quick recovery and long-lasting results
Recovery from LASIK is relatively quick, with many patients resuming daily activities within a day or two. However, full visual stabilisation may take several weeks to months.
LASIK results are generally long-lasting, but natural age-related vision changes, such as presbyopia or cataracts, may still develop over time.
If you want to know if LASIK for astigmatism is the appropriate procedure for you, get in touch with Shinagawa Eye Centre and its team of specialists for a comprehensive consultation. Call to enquire or book an appointment today!
Sources:
https://patch.com/michigan/grand-rapids/classifieds/gigs-services/483874/why-lasik-eye-surgery-is-a-game-changer-for-your-eye-healthhttps://oculase.com/blog/should-i-have-lasik-for-astigmatism/