If you’re looking into getting LASIK, you may find all of the information on it to be a bit overwhelming. Luckily, LASIK is a relatively simple procedure that doesn’t take long at all, and it is easier than ever to find a skilled surgeon in New York City. In order to provide you with all of the basic information on LASIK that you need to know, here’s a quick, easy to follow guide!
What is LASIK?
Before we get into specifics, it’s important to have an understanding of what LASIK is. LASIK stands for “Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis”. Keratomileusis is a surgery that was developed in 1948 by Jose I. Barraquer Moner and is designed to reshape the cornea.
The goal of LASIK is to correct vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The aim is to reduce or eliminate the recipient’s need for other visual aids, such as contacts or glasses through surgical means. LASIK results in over 96% of recipients in the U.S. experiencing 20/20 vision.
The Procedure in 3 Steps
LASIK can be broken down into 3 steps: What happens before the surgery, what happens during, and what happens after.
- Before: Before the surgery, you first need to be examined to discern whether or not you are eligible to to actually receive LASIK (discussed later). You will be asked to not wear contacts for several weeks before being examined. This is important, because the doctor will need an accurate view of your cornea in it’s natural state. Contacts tend to reshape the cornea, and even a slight miscalculation can cause affect the results drastically. You will also be asked to not apply things like perfume, cologne, makeup, or lotion to your face the day before the surgery. These things can increase the risk of infection, as your eyes will be particularly susceptible to it after LASIK. It is important to make sure that you have a way to get home after the surgery, as you will not be able to drive for a while after.
- During: LASIK can be performed by using either a laser or a special instrument called a microkeratome to create a flap in the cornea, which is lifted so that some of the tissue underneath can be removed. This reshapes the cornea, allowing light to travel through and focus onto the retina properly. Today, doctors use special computer technology called “wavefront” to map out the eye with extreme precision. At Stahl Eyecare Experts, we use the iDesign Advanced WaveScan Studio to ensure that we have the best and most accurate readings of your eyes possible. The procedure itself takes only about 15 minutes. During this time, your eyes will be numbed with special anesthetic eye drops, so you will feel no pain. At most, you may experience an uncomfortable pressure.
- After: After LASIK you will need to get plenty of rest. Your vision may be slightly blurred and itchy. Resist the urge to rub your eyes; they will be very delicate for several weeks. Your doctor may give you eye drops to help deal with any discomfort. Avoid heavy lifting, sports, or any other vigorous activity for at least 3 days, and do not do anything that puts your eyes at high risk of being hit for at least a month. Also avoid makeup or other facial applications for a couple weeks to prevent infection.You will want to attend all of your follow up appointments so that your doctor can track the progress of your recovery. Usually there will be one scheduled for a day or two following the surgery. After that, you will be asked to schedule them periodically for about 6 months to a year. Most patients see improvements in vision immediately after the surgery, but everyone heals differently. Don’t worry if you experience unstable vision for a few months. Your doctor may recommend an enhancement surgery after the first 3 months. However, pain or loss of vision should be reported immediately, as these are extremely rare and serious complications.
Am I Eligible for LASIK?
LASIK is a wonderful option for many people, but unfortunately it is not right for everyone. You must be at least 18 years old, and at least 21 for more serious refractive errors. General eye health is also taken into consideration. Conditions such as scarring or chronic diseases can make the operation more risky. Some diseases that are not related to the eye can affect your candidacy as well. Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and unmanaged diabetes are a few.
The best way to find out if you are eligible is to contact us and schedule a consultation at any one of our locations in Garden City, Manhattan, or Hauppauge, NYC.
Is LASIK Affordable?
LASIK generally costs around $2,000 per eye, depending on the patient. At Stahl, we offer the most competitive rates in NYC, due to the fact that we own our own equipment, allowing us to pass along the savings to you. We also offer financing options, such as the popular CareCredit healthcare credit card. Don’t let finances stand in the way of good vision!
Finding a Good LASIK Surgeon in New York City
Eyesight is one of the most important things for an individual. That’s why finding the best LASIK surgeon is a priority. At Stahl Eyecare Experts, we have a dedicated staff that is ready to make your treatment safe, effective, and comfortable. Our doctors are experienced and knowledgeable, with specialized training in the field of ophthalmology specific to LASIK surgery. Come visit us and find out for yourself why Stahl is the best option for LASIK!
