Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a surgical procedure to reduce nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism by reshaping tissue in the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye. It evolved from a variety of refractive surgery techniques including photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Is LASIK Safe?

In January 2002, the American Academy of Ophthalmology — The Eye M.D. Association — looked at a number of scientific studies and found that LASIK is safe and effective for correcting low-to-moderate nearsightedness and astigmatism. However, the Academy also found the results of LASIK are less predictable in eyes with moderate-to- high nearsightedness. The Academy found serious complications resulting in permanent visual loss happen rarely with LASIK, but side effects such as dry eyes, nighttime starbursts and reduced ability to see in dim light occur more frequently. Our refractive surgeons will talk to you about the possible risks and side effects of LASIK.

Who Shouldn't Have LASIK?

LASIK is an excellent procedure for many, but not all people with refractive errors. Those who are not good candidates should not have the surgery.

If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be a good candidate for LASIK:

• Uncontrolled or advanced glaucoma
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Diabetes
• Some autoimmune disorders (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, HIV/AIDS)
• Use of Prednisone pills or drops
• Dry eyes
• Irritation of the eyelids with itching and scaly skin
• Pupil size over seven millimeters
• Warped* or thin corneas
• Genetic or metabolic problems affecting the cornea

* If you wear contact lenses, especially rigid lenses, before performing LASIK our refractive surgeons will examine you using a series of measurements to see if your corneas are warped. Our refractive surgeons may ask you to remove your rigid contact lenses for several weeks or months, and soft contact lenses for several days or weeks prior to examination to allow your cornea to return to its normal shape.

Is LASIK Better Than PRK?

LASIK has become more popular than PRK for a number of reasons, including:

• Vision stabilizes sooner after surgery
• Less discomfort after surgery
• Faster improvement in vision
• Less corneal haze
• For people who need higher levels of correction, vision is more predictable and stable, and the corneas are clearer
• Shorter time on medication after surgery
• Enhancement procedure, if needed, is easier

However, LASIK may not be the best procedure for you. Other procedures such as PRK or all laser bladeless LASIK may be better suited for you. For moderate to high refractive errors, phakic IOL implantation may be recommended. Our refractive surgeons will work with you to determine which, if any, procedure is best for you.

Will LASIK Give Me 20/20 Vision?

It might, but even after LASIK, you may not be able to “throw away your glasses and contacts.” Studies have shown that the majority of people— but not all — who have LASIK will come away with 20/40 vision or better without the need of glasses or contact lenses. Some people choose to have a second surgery, referred to as an enhancement, to further refine their vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, most people who have had LASIK will need reading glasses as they get into their 40s and 50s.

What Should I Do If I'm Considering LASIK?

Talk to one of our refractive surgeons to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you have any of the conditions mentioned earlier, you may not be. If our refractive surgeon determines that you are a good candidate, before setting a date for  surgery, find out:

• The possible risks and complications
• The experience of our refractive surgeon
• The outcomes of the procedures performed by our refractive surgeon
• The percent of patients returning for secondary procedures (enhancements)
• Whether our refractive surgeon is using a laser approved by the FDA
• What is involved in after-surgery care
• Who will handle and be responsible for after-surgery care

Contact Our Refractive Surgeons 

Book a visit today! Call +632 828 2020 or +63917 844 2020.