Saturday, January 31, 2009

Laser LASIK Eye Surgeries - A Few Basic Points

By Shannon Bobbitt

LASIK eye surgery is a procedure which uses a specialized laser and treats refractive errors of the eye. After the surgery, you can expect to have improved vision without the need for spectacles and contact lenses. This is the overwhelming reason for most people who think about having the procedure, because their occupation or way of life is compromised by wearing glasses. In some occupations, you are disallowed if you need to wear glasses or contacts.

Some of these people can be helped with Lasik surgery, but not everybody is suited to the procedure. Refractive errors occur when the lens and the cornea, which together are responsible for focus in the eye, are not in correct alignment. People with this condition have a prescription for glasses calculated by an eye doctor so they can see properly. The Lasik procedure is designed to permanently correct this error.

The Wavefront Lasik treatment, using a Wavefront laser, is effective in reducing the side effects that were common with conventional Lasik surgery. It is the latest and one of the most popular of the different types of Lasik eye surgery and bases its calculations on the patient's prescription and the curvature and thickness of the cornea. This means it has more accurate results, though some side effects can still occur.

This question of side effects is often the first thing potential patients ask about, because it is of concern to them. Thousands of people have successfully had Lasik surgery with pleasing results, but there remains a possibility of side effects and risks, as with any surgical procedure.

These side effects can include things like sensitivity to glare and light particularly at night, seeing a halo around objects, hazy vision, and some patients report having developed a Dry Eye condition, a worsening of their vision after the surgery or results that were not permanent.

Lasik eye surgery is performed by specialist eye doctors and eye clinics that have been established to offer this procedure. Prices vary greatly between Lasik providers. It is important to know exactly what a quote covers; and whether there are extras to be added. Generally speaking, Lasik eye surgery will cost from $1,500 to $2,400 per eye.

To find a doctor to perform Lasik surgery, you will be best advised to do some research into the various eye clinics that specialize in the procedure. There are many quality clinics and doctors' around and you need to go and see more than just one to find the doctor who is right for you. Look for a surgeon who has performed many Lasik procedures and who has a good reputation. Ask as many questions as you need and request the procedure to be fully explained to you. - 15437

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