It can be a shock to realize you must wear corrective eyewear to see clearly. In particular, you will likely have this apprehension if you are young; at this time, finding out something is wrong with your sight can be too unsettling. Thankfully, seeing clearly again or for the first time can easily overcome your initial misgivings. But further on, you notice the challenges of using eyeglasses, making you wish to switch to contacts.

But while contacts have the added benefit of a wide field of vision and crisp vision, they still have limitations. You need to have a rigorous hygiene routine to ensure you do not get infections. Also, wearing your contacts for a long time can lead to dry eyes or eye irritation. In the face of all these, LASIK may prove to be what you need to overcome your eyes’ limitations.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK is short for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is the most popular and recent form of eye surgery that helps correct refractive errors. While a large percentage of patients who get the surgery do not need to use eyewear, some of them may still do. However, they will only likely need a lower prescription and may not be as dependent on them as before.

How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK utilizes powerful and precise lasers to correct vision. It usually works for refractive errors such as astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia. The eye doctor uses the laser to reshape the cornea through slight ablation.

The eye doctor starts by flapping the topmost layer of the cornea, lifting it to expose the endothelium. The eye doctor then reshapes the endothelium to the preferred shape and thickness. They will only remove a small part of the tissue. The tissues usually do not grow back, so the changes from the surgery are considered permanent.

How Long Do the Results Last?

The results from the surgery are permanent, and many people will experience better vision for many years. But in some cases, people may need intervention later as their vision may not be as perfect as before. In these situations, you need to see an eye doctor who can recommend the way forward.

The eye doctor determines so based on several factors. One is how much tissue was removed in the first surgery. Another is how much is left in your eye. Another factor is whether you have developed other eye conditions like cataracts, chronic dry eye, or glaucoma.

Can You Get LASIK Twice?

Depending on the results of your consultation described above, the eye doctor may decide that you qualify for a second procedure. A second procedure is only possible if you are in good eye health. A reason a secondary procedure is necessary may be that your vision could be better. This is why it is called an enhancement procedure.

Risks of a Secondary LASIK Procedure

• Dry eye for a few weeks after the procedure
  
  

• Halos or glare in the nighttime around some lights
  
  

• Temporary discomfort and itchiness
  
  

• Overcorrection or under-correction of an eye condition

For more on whether you need laser vision correction, visit Laser Vision Delaware at our office in Wilmington, Delaware. Call (302) 656-2020 to book an appointment today.