If you have had vision problems, you probably have heard the words "Lasik surgery" in your travels.
It seems everyone is talking about Lasik surgery.
But you may not know what it is or if you are a good candidate for it.
Here is some basic information to get you started on your research into Lasik surgery.
The eye uses its cornea to bend light and create an image on the retina.
If a cornea is misshaped an image may be distorted and the person will experience a certain type of vision problem.
Any surgery that attempts to correct the corneal workings is called refractive surgery.
Lasik is a refractive surgery designed to remove parts of the corneal tissue by the use of a laser.
For people with severe enough eyesight issues, Lasik may be a procedure that can help them see better.
The procedure is now FDA approved, and a board certified eye surgeon should be selected to do the surgery.
The procedure works on a simple theory.
If the cornea is reshaped, the light can once again work its way through to create the properly focused image on the retina.
So Lasik aims to correct the shape of the cornea.
Not everyone is a candidate for Lasik and an initial consultation must be done by an eye doctor.
After you have been cleared for the procedure, you'll be given an explanation of what to expect.
Basically, you'll be sedated and your eye will be held open so the surgeon can work.
A small layer of the tissue of your cornea will be lifted.
This is called the corneal flap.
The laser then comes in and reshapes a portion of the cornea and the original flap is returned to its normal position.
The procedure has been used to great success and there are many happy patients who no longer have to wear glasses to correct their vision.
If you are interested in Lasik, you should find a qualified eye surgeon and set up a first meeting.
Only a doctor can tell you if the procedure will work for your particular eye condition.
Fees can be high, so you should check with any insurance you might have to see if Lasik is a procedure that is covered.
Recovery time will vary, but you should plan on having blurred or reduced vision and having to use eye drops and medications after the procedure.
And be prepared that a second or future surgery may be necessary.