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Debunking Myths with Facts about LASIK Eye Surgery
Debunking Myths with Facts about LASIK Eye Surgery

As of today, LASIK Eye surgery remains one of the safest medical procedures anyone can undertake for their body. It can also change one’s life for the better because it brings a permanent solution. The procedure involves reshaping the eye’s cornea to influence the refraction of the light that falls on it. LASIK eye surgery deals with eye problems such as hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism.

By the way, hyperopia is the condition known as farsightedness, where the patient can only see distant objects. In myopia, also known as myopia, the patients can only see near objects. As for astigmatism, the patient experiences a blurry vision of things at all distances. But when you undergo the eye surgery lasik, you can be free from any inconvenience due to blurry vision with the hassle of wearing glasses or contact lenses. That is true freedom.

Related: 4 Vital Solutions to Anxiety before your LASIK Eye Surgery

The fact that we talk about LASIK this way does not remove the questions people may have. So, it is customary to have still questions or concerns about the process, preparation, and results. That is why we are here to remove any doubts or demystify some of the false beliefs you may true. We will not just confront and disprove them using scientific and experiential facts.

Debunking Myths with Facts about LASIK Eye Surgery

5 Myths about the LASIK Procedure

Myth 1: LASIK Eye Surgery is very painful

It is funny how people have come to believe this myth over time. But the sincere person who has undergone the process can only talk about a few discomforts here and there, which are simply average. When the body requires a medical procedure, we must respect that it is not a natural process and may bring some little discomfort. Again, before any design can be approved, it must effectively reduce any pain patients may experience. It is also true of LASIK. 

Therefore, the straight answer is that when undergoing LASIK eye surgery, the worst you may experience is slight discomfort due to the subtle pressure applied to the eyes during the surgery. But the procedure is entirely painless, and many patients have reported minimal discomfort during the surgery. 

At the same time, the process requires that some drops o numbing drug be applied to your eyes to limit any discomfort. In addition to the numbing drops, you may also be given some mild sedatives to avoid disturbance during the procedure. Ativan is used to calm your nerves. LASIK eye surgery is a rapid procedure that can be completed in under 10 minutes. The actual laser process only lasts for about a minute for each eye.

Myth 2: Not suitable for most people

Another myth people have about LASIK eye surgery is that they assume it is not suitable for everyone. This statement believes that the person in question may not be eligible for LASIK eye surgery. Some of the common factors include age or state of health. But any patient between 18 and 65 is generally suitable as a candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Even if you fall outside this range, you may consider alternative procedures to LASIK. In addition, it is possible to be ineligible for LASIK eye surgery due to other factors. 

Myth 3: Unknown long-term effects

This myth is entirely false because the technology behind LASIK eye surgery has existed for several decades. As a result, it goes through many changes until the one we have now, which is the best. Also, it has been one of the most popular medical procedures since its first application in the 1990s. It also comes with very low proven risks to give the best results. 

Many research studies have shown that LASIK has a shallow risk. For instance, a report indicates that there is less than a 0.01 chance that you will contract the bacterial infection by using contact lenses. Meanwhile, the risk of inflammation after undergoing LASIK eye surgery is 1 in every 1500 cases. Comparing the two statistics, we can conclude that patients who use contact lenses are 500 times more likely to breed an infection than those who take on LASIK eye surgery.

Debunking Myths with Facts about LASIK Eye Surgery

Myth 4: LASIK eye surgery can cause blindness

There is nearly zero chance that a patient who undergoes LASIK eye surgery with us will go blind. We have never had such a report in our years of operation. In addition, the rate at which anyone who undergoes LASIK with use will get an infection is far lesser than the expected rate. This result also shows that we are professionals at what we do. Moreover, we thoroughly examine the patient’s condition before starting the procedure to remove any associated risk. 

Myth 5: LASIK is expensive 

When you think of LASIK eye surgery in terms of the value you get in the long run, you will agree it is a worthy investment. The vision correction through the use of laser technology ensures a permanent solution to whatever your eye defect is. At the same time, when you estimate the cost of alternatives, including eyeglasses and contact lenses, you will see that LASIK eye surgery saves you much money.

Furthermore, it can also eliminate or reduce a patient’s dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses. After a successful LASIK eye surgery, you will spend less on sunglasses, contact refills, and lenses. Before you even start the LASIK procedure, you can estimate the cost discrepancy on the possible amount of money you can save. A good vision isn’t a luxury but a basic necessity of life, and we do our best to make it happen. 

Conclusion

Other myths about the LASIK eye procedure are untrue, such as believing the recovery process is slow or painful. Another one is that the results of LASIK do not last. These myths are not true, and the experiences of past patients with LASIK eye surgery already debunk these myths. Today, LASIK eye surgery is the surest and most effective procedure in correcting different eye defects for the rest of one’s life.  

Handy LASIK tips you’ll need
Handy LASIK tips you’ll need

It has always been necessary to rely on alternative corrective procedures, such as wearing prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, in the past and in the present. These treatments are successful, but they are also expensive and time-consuming, and they are also fragile in the long term, necessitating the user to make a number of sacrifices.

Opthalmology (laser eye surgery), also known as LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis), is a very successful and popular operation that is used to repair vision abnormalities such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Eye surgery lasik is a type of laser surgery that uses a laser to address vision disorders (cylinder power). It is changing the way we perceive the world since it allows us to see without the use of spectacles. Click here to get more about laisk.

Despite the fact that lasers have some constraints, such as the need that the user be older than 18 years, to attain outstanding outcomes, you must be in excellent medical condition. Your refractive error, as well as other variables, will influence your outcomes. With refractive LASIK, those who have mild nearsightedness with or without astigmatism (cylinder power) are more likely to have a positive outcome than others.

Handy LASIK tips you’ll need

What is the surgery’s procedure?

There are two types of LASIK that are commercially accessible. PRK and LASIK are two different procedures; PRK is an earlier variant, whilst LASIK was created later. The shape of the Cornea is primarily responsible for all flaws in the refractive power of the eye. A cold beam of ultraviolet light with a certain wavelength (usually 193 nanometers) is produced by the excimer laser during LASIK, allowing the corneal tissue to be precisely remodulated.

In order for light rays to concentrate properly on to the retina for clear vision, the surface of the cornea must be altered in order for this to happen effectively. By flattening the cornea, lasers can cure nearsightedness, whereas lasers can repair farsightedness by making the cornea steeper. In addition, because LASIK is so precise, it guarantees that the adjustments are completed accurately and in a sterile environment, therefore reducing the danger of infection.

Lasers are equipped with eye trackers, which aid in the appropriate concentrating of laser light on the center of the cornea and the visual axis, resulting in a superior outcome. Despite the fact that the laser accomplishes most of the work in less than a minute, the laser surgery technique itself takes less than 10 minutes each eye. It usually takes a week to a few weeks for total vision stabilization to occur, however your vision should be substantially normal within a day or two of treatment.

Is having LASIK a painful procedure?

When it comes to any type of surgery, individuals are extremely concerned about the pain they may experience. When it comes to our eyes, our dread multiplies by a factor of ten. The good news is that LASIK is completely painless. Anesthesia eye drops will be inserted into both of your eyes by your surgeon just before to the start of your LASIK. Despite the fact that you may still feel a little pressure throughout the treatment, you will not experience any discomfort.

The fact is that some little pain, like as soreness and a scratchy feeling, is to be expected following your LASIK or PRK LASIK procedure. After that, the cornea will be allowed time to recover on its own. It is possible that you could have some discomfort throughout the healing process, but this will pass fast.

Following the treatment, your eyes may feel itchy, have a burning feeling, or you may have the sense that something is stuck in your eye. A protective barrier is provided to prevent you from mistakenly scratching your eyes or rubbing them unintentionally.

If you are feeling significant discomfort, you should get medical attention as soon as possible.

Complications that might arise and cause discomfort

LASIK, like any surgical procedure, has the possibility of complications. Pain can be significant in some cases, such as when an infection occurs or when a corneal flap becomes dislodged.

If you are feeling significant discomfort, you should get medical attention as soon as possible.

Avoid rubbing your eyes for approximately 1 week following your LASIK and follow the rest of your doctor’s post-operative recommendations to avoid issues.

Handy LASIK tips you’ll need

Is it possible to be put entirely under anesthesia for LASIK?

The vast majority of patients who have LASIK remain conscious during the treatment. The entire procedure is generally completed in less than 30 minutes.

The actual laser operation takes less than a minute per eye and is generally completed in one sitting. According to a scientific review published in 2016, the improved SMILE treatment only takes roughly 25 seconds each eye to complete. Source that can be trusted.

Surgeons prefer anesthetic eye drops to general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, because they are less painful.

According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, general anesthesia is associated with hazards and would raise the cost of the procedure by a significant amount.

It is possible that general anesthesia will produce certain potentially life-threatening adverse effects, but this is rare. One such side effect is malignant hyperthermia, which is characterized by a temperature and muscular spasms.

It’s possible that you’ll be prescribed a sedative, such as valium, to help you relax if you’re feeling apprehensive before your operation.

Post-surgery eye care guidelines are recommended.

After your LASIK, it is critical that you adhere to your doctor’s instructions. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions provides you the best chance of preventing problems.

Once you’re done with your operation, there are several things you should and shouldn’t do.

Dos

In accordance with the FDA-trusted Source, you should make an appointment with your doctor 24 to 48 hours following your treatment and at regular intervals for the first six months.

• Consult your doctor promptly if you are experiencing extreme discomfort or if your vision is deteriorating rather than improving.

  • When sleeping the first several nights, make sure to use your protective eye protection.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions for using your eye drops.
  • Get as much sleep as you possibly can.
  • Protect your eyes by using safety goggles in dusty conditions.
  • Protect your eyes with sunglasses.

Don’ts 

  • Do not rub your eyes after undergoing the treatment.
  • Don’t drive at night for at least a month following your procedure.
  • Participate in contact sports until your doctor gives you the green light. Sporting activities that are physically demanding, such as boxing or football, should be avoided for at least a month.
  • After surgery, you should refrain from using lotions, creams, or cosmetics for at least 2 weeks or until you have received approval from your doctor.
  • For one to two months, go swimming or soak in a hot tub or whirlpool.
  • Spend extended periods of time in dusty or smoking areas.
Things you shouldn’t dare to do after a cataract surgery
Things you shouldn’t dare to do after a cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a common treatment performed by the majority of surgeons. Because cataracts affect such a large number of individuals, they are frequently removed.

Indeed, cataract surgery is one of the most frequently done surgical operations in the United States! It has been established as a safe and successful method.

However, after you’ve had surgery, it’s critical to exercise caution during your recovery. If you do not allow your eyes to recover, you endanger your health. The following are seven things you should avoid doing following cataract surgery:

Drive

You should refrain from driving for at least 24 hours following cataract surgery. You may wish to wait even longer, as many individuals experience light sensitivity for many days following surgery. Take precautions and wait until you are confident that you can see the road well enough to drive!

Makeup

Makeup is bacteria-ridden! It’s completely harmless as long as you avoid sharing cosmetics, but your eyes are more susceptible to infection throughout the healing process.

Withhold cosmetics until your surgeon’s follow-up appointment and inquire when it is safe to resume use.

If you intend to wear makeup following cataract surgery, you need to get fresh cosmetics. This is especially true for eye cosmetics such as mascara, eye shadow, or eyeliners. If you’re wearing outdated makeup, they can easily carry bacteria into your eye.

Carry Out Any Extensive Activity

Until your surgeon indicates otherwise, limit yourself to light activities. Avoid vigorous activity such as heavy lifting, exercise, and other strenuous activities.

Exercise might exacerbate difficulties throughout the cataract surgery healing process. You’re more likely to get involved in an accident if you’re performing any physically demanding activity. Therefore, take a break for a time!

Visit Areas That Are Dusty

This is not the time to dust! For a while, you should avoid activities and locations where there is a lot of dust or dirt in the air. Click here to read about The right time to return to exercising after cataract surgery.

If you are unable to avoid dust entirely, wear protective glasses when in its vicinity. Goggles are preferable to glasses because they prevent foreign objects from entering in between the lenses.

Swim

You should avoid getting water in your eye entirely, therefore when showering, avoid aiming the showerhead directly at your face. Additionally, you should abstain from any pool or hot tub visits for two weeks after cataract surgery.

Even if you are not recovering from cataract surgery, chlorine can be harmful to your eye. Avoid entering a pool or hot tub, even if your head remains above water!

Outside, Forget To Wear Sunglasses

Sunglasses should always be worn outside, but they are especially more critical following cataract surgery. Protect your eyes from UV rays and avoid going out without a nice pair of sunglasses!

Consider Rubbing Your Eye

Never, ever rub your eye! While it may seem uncomfortable or irritated, touching it will aggravate it. Eye rubbing might result in significant consequences.

The majority of initial pain subsides within a day or two of operation. If you continue to feel discomfort, you can treat it with medications or eye drops. After a few days, if your suffering persists, contact your doctor.

Do not be concerned about your cataract surgery. Cataract operations are quick and painless. You’re in capable hands with the cataract doctors at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania, and there are several things you can do to expedite your recovery on your own. Let’s take a look at the dos and don’ts following cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery typically takes roughly ten minutes to complete. Due to the fact that we only operate on one eye at a time, the process is rather rapid. We offer a recovery area where you will be able to relax for around 30 minutes following surgery, or longer if you are still sleepy from the anesthetic. You’ll need someone to drive you home.

While some individuals report having clear vision immediately following cataract surgery, your vision may be impaired for a while as your eye adjusts to the new lens implant we placed in your eye to replace your clouded natural lens.

The white portion of your eye may seem red due to burst blood vessels; this is perfectly normal and often heals within a few days. Additionally, you may have some bruising behind your eye that mimics a black eye; this is typical and will dissipate within a few days.

What to Do and What Not to Do

One of the most prevalent side effects of cataract surgery is a dry eye sensation. The eye may seem nearly irritated as if it needs to be scratched, but avoid the impulse to massage it. Rubbing might cause the new lens to get dislodged. Each day, the itching sensation subsides as your eye recovers. If you already suffered from dry eye, the disease may become more severe shortly following surgery.

Don’t forget to take the drugs we recommend. We will send you home with both antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops. You will need to administer the drops multiple times daily for the first week following surgery. Make sure you never skip a dosage and take them precisely as instructed.

It Is Time to Heal

One of our most serious issues is patients who overdo it and attempt to accomplish too much too quickly. While you may feel fantastic following surgery, you must gradually return to your usual daily routine.

Avoid leaning over immediately following cataract surgery, since this places additional pressure on your eye. Avoid sneezing for the same reasons. Avoid driving the day after surgery. For the first several weeks following surgery, we do not want you to engage in intense activity or heavy lifting.

While your eye recovers, you should avoid swimming pools and hot tubs for at least the first week. Additionally, avoid dust and pollen-filled locations for a few weeks to avoid getting these irritants in your eye.

While the list above contains several do’s and don’ts, there are a few things you may do in the hours following surgery, such as shower or bath, light computer work, or watching a little television.

Let Us Help You See The World Again
Let Us Help You See The World Again At Its Fullest Potential

Have your days been interrupted by headaches that you can’t seem to quit getting? If so, it may be due to your eyes needing a new prescription. It’s easy to forget how much we depend on our vision. If the signs on the road have become unclear, or the writing on a whiteboard at the front of a classroom starts to look like unintentional hieroglyphics, it’s time to see the eye doctor. At Nicholas Leone, M.D., P.C., we make your vision our mission. Call us today to schedule a visit.

See Clearer

Whether you are nearsighted or farsighted, our professionals are prepared to help you see clearer than you ever have. You will walk into your first appointment with blurry sight, but when you pick up your new prescription, you will notice details and shadows that you’ve never seen. Let Nicholas Leone, M.D., P.C. help you see the clear, wonderful world that Louis Armstrong sings about. Reach out to us today. Our staff is ready to help you.

Feel Better

If you are a student, a full-time employee staring at a computer, or a hobbyist, straining your eyes can lead to unpleasant feelings like headaches and eye soreness. It can be easy to get used to the symptoms and ignore them, but it’s more important for you to come to get an eye checkup at the first sign of something being off. There is a chance that it could be something more serious that is easier to catch at the beginning. We can help.

We Will Help You Focus

Blurry vision can make reading, computer work, or detailed crafting very difficult. If you find it difficult to focus on the important elements in your life, come in for an eye examination. We will help you gain your focus back and we ensure that you will feel better about your projects. Let us help. Call us today and we will get you on the road to a clearer vision and happier life.