A Complete Overview of LASIK Eye Surgery Detroit By William Goldstein on August 13, 2013

Laser in situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, is a laser eye surgery that is used to correct astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. LASIK is used to change the shape of the cornea, which is a transparent part covering the front part of the eye. A special kind of laser known as excimer laser is used during this surgery to improve vision and treat refractive errors. Refractive errors are caused when light rays entering the eye do not exactly focus on the retina, and in turn lead to the formation of a blurred image.

How LASIK works

A LASIK eye surgery in Michigan is usually carried out to reshape the cornea of the patient. Nearsighted people have a steep cornea that needs to be flattened, whereas farsighted people need a steep cornea and not a flat one. During LASIK, the surgeon first makes a corneal flap using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser.

The underlying corneal tissue is then exposed by pulling back the flap. The surgeon uses the excimer laser to shape the cornea as desired, depending on what the patient is suffering from. Then the flap is repositioned above the corrected cornea. This is an outpatient procedure and the patient need not stay at the hospital overnight.

Difference between LASIK, LASEK, and PRK

LASIK eye surgery in Detroit is a popular type of laser eye surgery but if LASIK is not suitable for you, you can consider going for LASEK or PRK that are similar to LASIK. These 3 types of procedure differ based on how the eye is prepared for surgery.

In PRK, the surgeon removes the outer thin layer of cornea. This is done by using a surgical instrument and an alcohol liquid. The excimer laser is then used to change the shape of the corneal stroma, and the layer of cornea that was removed grows back within 5 days.

As in PRK, the surgeon separates the outer layer of the cornea during LASEK, but does not discard it. The separated layer is then placed over the corneal stroma after the stroma is reshaped. A bandage contact lens is then positioned on the eye till the outer layer heals.

Probable side-effects after LASIK

LASIK eye surgery can cause side-effects for some people. Though many people respond well to this surgery, some may face problems that you need to be aware of. Few side-effects people complain about include eye infection, flap problems, or dry eyes. These side-effects will take some time to heal, but you need to inform your doctor if you notice these problems.

Other side-effects are halos and glare, which will take some days to heal. Health issues, such as diabetes, can also influence the side-effects you may face after surgery. So it is best to discuss your general health with your ophthalmologist before going for a LASIK treatment.