Since the beginning of time, people have been concerned about vision. Glasses and contact lenses were the only options before LASIK emerged. And probably, eyeglasses and contact lenses provided people with temporary improvement in vision. But there was still a need for permanent solution.
LASIK was one of the first successful refractive surgeries invented in the 1990s. It changed the way of correcting the vision with excimer laser. It was probably the first highly effective process with fewer side effects that provided a permanent relief solution to vision problems. It can be used for treating near-sightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
History Of Lasik Eye Surgery
In the 19th century, laser procedures were met with partial success with problems in some. It was due to the minimal understanding, less experience, limited availability of skilled surgeons, and advancement in technology. Then came excimer laser in the 1970’s. It was found to have the ability to cut through organic tissue with incredible precision. And in 1971, the very first successful surgery was performed, known as photo refractive keratectomy. In this Excimer laser was used to reshape the cornea. It lead to rapid growth of the use of excimer laser in the field of "Ophthalmology".
In 1991s, an excimer laser was paired with a new device called Microkeratome. A microkeratome is a surgical instrument used to make a précise cut in the corneal flap. It allows the excimer laser to reshape the corneal stroma. This flap is later put back and heals naturally. This new process was called LASIK (Laser-Assisted in-situ Keratomileusis). After successful trials, LASIK received approval from FDA in 1999.
Why Should I Prefer Lasik Surgery For Vision Correction?
Even though other vision surgical options are available, LASIK remains the first and popular choice for many people. Some of the reasons why patients prefer LASIK are:
- Technology Advancement: LASIK uses the most advanced technology. The wavefront optimised and wavefront guided technology were incorporated with LASIK. Topography guided LASIK ( Contoura ) helps in correction of number with a topographical map of the cornea. This corneal mapping is unique for each individual. It is like a fingerprint. It helps in providing the most precise result possible. The system used for the excimer laser has very precise results.
- Safe, Effective, and Reliable: LASIK is a safe vision correction procedure. The most important consideration while choosing any procedure is safety. According to data released by FDA, it was confirmed more than 95% received 20/20 vision or better the following day. In addition, it showed a 96% patient satisfaction rate, the highest for any elective process.Less than 1% of cases are reported to have complications. They are also found to be temporary and short-term.
- Lasik is quick with Less Downtime: The actual procedure for LASIK is rapid. You will be at the clinic for one or two hours in all. However, it takes around 15 minutes per eye. The laser contacts the eye for less than 60 -120 seconds.
- Produces Immediate Results: You will see an immediate improvement in your vision within 24 hours. As per the latest report, more than 96% of patients have achieved 20/20 vision, and almost 99% have achieved at least 20/40 vision. This short recovery period and quick results make LASIK popular and still the first choice for many people.
- Improves and Supports Active Lifestyle: LASIK supports an active lifestyle. Now, you do not have to worry about losing, breaking, or fogging your glasses. There will be no need to worry about removing the contact lens while swimming or sleeping. You can participate in any sport. It helps in simplifying your lifestyle and adding confidence to your personality.
LASIK is permanent and once the cornea is reshaped, it will maintain its shape for years. The results are so good that most people do not need further treatment. Only 1% of patients go for second/enhancement surgery. LASIK is your investment in your vision and future happiness.
