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LASIK Eye Surgery -- Freedom From Corrective Lenses

Find a LASIK specialist in the Southwest Missouri area.

Imperfect vision can be corrected. Permanently. LASIK, or "laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis," is a common eye surgery that corrects focus and restores sharp vision.

People with myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism may benefit from this procedure.

How LASIK Works

LASIK is advanced laser surgery to permanently alter the cornea and improve focus. A special blade or a laser cuts a precise opening or flap in the cornea allowing access to inner layers. A computer-controlled laser reshapes the inner cornea improving the eye’s ability to focus. The flap is reconnected without stitches and heals naturally.

There is a brief recovery time while vision stabilizes. Mild discomfort and blurry vision is common the first few days. Other common side-effects such as sensitivity to light and dry eyes may last several weeks or months. Your doctor will examine the treated eyes the day following surgery. Many achieve 20/20 vision, but others achieve 20/40 or less.

Who Is Right for LASIK Eye Surgery?

About 80 percent of the adult population is a candidate for LASIK eye surgery. There are plenty of lifestyle reasons to choose this treatment including wanting freedom from the inconvenience or risks of daily corrective lens wear and having a busy, active lifestyle.

The first step is to schedule an evaluation with your eye care specialist who will determine if the procedure is right for you. Some of the important criteria include:

  • Being aged 18 or older and having a stable prescription

  • Having a common and treatable vision problem such as astigmatism, farsightedness, nearsightedness

  • Having strong tear production and the right corneal thickness

  • Being free from certain medical conditions that would affect healing and eye health

  • Having not experienced previous eye injury or eye surgery

The procedure is not without risks and complications, though many are temporary. The procedure cannot be reversed. In rare cases, complications during surgery can cause serious and irreversible damage to the eye. Only eye surgeons, or ophthalmologists, are qualified to perform LASIK. Talk to your doctor about these possible side-effects and outcomes:

  • Dry eye

  • Sensitivity to light including glares, halos and starbursts

  • Blurred vision

  • Double vision

  • Need for additional surgery, known at LASIK enhancement

  • Continued use of corrective lenses for certain tasks

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