Blurry vision caused by refractive errors can make daily activities difficult. For those wanting a permanent fix without relying as much on glasses or contact lenses, consider LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis). It is a life-changing procedure that millions of Americans have undergone, making it one of the most common elective procedures in the country. If you are considering LASIK eye surgery Oklahoma to correct your vision, here is what you need to know.
The Basics of LASIK Eye Surgery Oklahoma
What Is It and How Does It Work?
The clear front part of the eye, the cornea, focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. If the cornea is misshapen, it can cause refractive errors that lead to blurred or distorted vision. LASIK corrects various vision problems by altering the shape of the cornea.
During LASIK, cornea doctors Oklahoma use a specialized laser to create a thin flap in the cornea. The doctor lifts this flap and then reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. Once the cornea’s shape is adjusted, light can focus properly on the retina. The result is clearer vision!
What Refractive Errors Can LASIK Correct?
An eye exam by cornea doctors Oklahoma can help determine if your vision would benefit from LASIK. Fortunately, this procedure is capable of correcting a variety of refractive errors, including:
- Myopia (nearsightedness), a condition that can make seeing distant objects difficult. To correct nearsightedness, LASIK flattens the cornea, which allows light to focus directly on the retina.
- Hyperopia (farsightedness), which causes close-up objects to appear blurry. LASIK treats farsightedness by steepening the cornea, helping light focus on the retina.
- Astigmatism, a condition that also results from a misshapen cornea, which leads to distorted or blurred vision at near and far distances. This eye surgery Oklahoma corrects astigmatism by reshaping the cornea into a more symmetrical curve.
- Presbyopia, which is not typically treated by traditional LASIK, but some patients opt for monovision LASIK. This refractive error is an age-related loss of near vision, which often requires reading glasses. With monovision LASIK, your eye doctor will correct one eye for near vision and the other for distance to reduce the need for reading glasses.
How Successful Is LASIK?
LASIK is typically very successful, with most recipients eventually achieving 20/20 vision or better. Most people who undergo this eye surgery Oklahoma experience a reduction in their dependence on glasses or contact lenses or may no longer need them at all. However, outcomes can vary depending on each individual and their circumstances, such as the severity of the refractive error and the patient’s overall eye health.
What Do I Need to Do to Get LASIK Eye Surgery Oklahoma?
Like many other procedures, LASIK is not suitable for everyone. The first step in seeing if you can receive LASIK is discussing your eligibility with cornea doctors Oklahoma. They will examine your eyes and discuss the criteria with you to determine if LASIK is the right option. In general, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Age. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Good Eye Health. Your eyes should be healthy and free of diseases. Certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma or cataracts, may disqualify you from the procedure.
- Good Overall Health. You must be in good health, as certain conditions may impact the procedure’s success.
Additionally, your eye doctor may consider other factors, such as your corneal thickness, the extent of your refractive error, prescription stability, lifestyle, and more.
Discover Clearer Vision With Eye Surgery Oklahoma
LASIK is a transformative procedure that helps millions of people see clearer. Partnering with the right eye doctor can keep you informed of your eligibility for LASIK and if the surgery can benefit you. For those searching for an experienced eye surgeon, look no further than BVA.
Our team of doctors at BVA Advanced Eye Care would love to meet with you to determine if LASIK is the right fit for you. Please schedule an appointment at one of our many locations across the Oklahoma City Metro!