MYTHS AND FACTS ON LASIK

MYTHS AND FACTS ON LASIK

Almost all those who wear glasses or contact lenses as vision aid, have contemplated at some point to undergo LASIK, a refractive surgery procedure to get rid of their glasses or contacts. While the believers in LASIK go ahead and get the process done to see the world once again without the inconvenience of geeky glasses or confusing contacts, the non-believers are not so sure about it. Dr. Mahipal Sachdev, renowned ophthalmologist and CMD, Centre for Sight dispels the top 10 myths on LASIK.
 
Myth # 1
LASIK is not a safe procedure…
With the advent of iLASIK (Intralase LASIK) LASIK has become blade –free and is a completely safe procedure, so much so that NASA recommends it to aspiring astronauts as this can withstand high gravitational forces and has been found to be stable and secure even in extreme environmental conditions. In the previous generation LASIK, microkeratome (a steel blade) was used to create a corneal flap. Now, in place of it, a LASER is used to create a corneal flap. Next, the Excimer laser “ablates” i.e. it removes the pre-determined amount of tissue to reshape the cornea with great accuracy and precision to correct the individual’s refractive error, after which the corneal flap is put back. Owing to the immense binding strength of corneal flap, it binds instantly.
 
Myth # 2
It is a painful procedure…
LASIK is a quick & painless procedure. Some patients, however, may feel a slight sense of discomfort for a few minutes. Anesthetic eye drops are instilled in each eye to minimize this discomfort. The procedure doesn’t take more than 5 to 6 minutes per eye. The person undergoing LASIK may feel pressure when the laser is at work.
 
Myth # 3
LASIK has long term repercussions as it is a new procedure…Well, LASIK has been around for nearly 20 years, which has benefited millions of patients. Many famous people including golfers Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh;  model & actor Jas Arora and members of pop band Bombay Rockers have undergone LASIK procedure to enhance their performance and achievements. A detailed screening is done prior to the surgery to ensure that you can undergo LASIK safely. In a small minority group with thin/weak corneas, there are other options available like surface ablation & phakic IOLs.
 
Myth # 4
I will not be able to get an intraocular lens (IOL) after cataract surgery and treatment would be difficult…It is true that finding the right intraocular lens requires a more considered choice after LASIK than in someone who has not undergone any procedure. However, it is hardly difficult if both your surgeons (cataract and LASIK) discuss among themselves. It will help them arrive at the most accurate IOL POWER calculation.

Myth # 5
No ophthalmologist undergoes LASIK himself
This is the hugest myth of all. Dr. Rupal Shah, Clinical Director, New Vision Laser Centre, our laser vision correction partner has herself performed LASIK on her daughter and husband as well as relatives of ophthalmologists, as it is a totally safe procedure.
 
Myth # 6
If you are comfortable with contact lenses, you do not need LASIK at all.
LASIK is safer than contact lenses which are foreign bodies that go inside your eyes. Contact lens wearers know that they have to maintain meticulous hygiene with the lenses. There is always a chance of infection if you don't wash your hands when in hurry or use contact lenses in spite of red eye for an important occasion. With the availability of newer antibiotics and better facilities, the infections can be taken care of in a better way.  Still there is always a risk of ulcer developing leaving behind permanent white spots or opacities on the cornea.  This leads to drop in visual acuity. A study recently published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, October 2006 edition, by Dr. Dello Russo and Dr. Walter Mathers states that

"Sight threatening infections from contact lens use occur in 1 in 2,000 contact lens wearers, whereas the study confirms that only one in 10,000 patients risk significant vision loss due to complications from LASIK, making LASIK the safest elective procedure being performed today."
 
Myth # 7
I will have to use eye drops for the rest of my life.
Initially when the corneal flap heals, the patient may have to use eye drops. A transient dry eye may require tear substitutes for 2-3 months. As the tear production sometimes normalizes by 2-3 months, these drops can be discontinued.
 
Myth # 8
LASIK does not correct astigmatism.
Most astigmatism can effectively be treated with today's LASIK eye surgery technology. Unfortunately this myth about astigmatism has held many patients back from proceeding with LASIK.

Myth # 9
I can not wear contact lenses after LASIK……
Yes, you can wear contact lenses (prescription/cosmetic) after LASIK.

Myth # 10
LASIK is an expensive procedure.
LASIK turns out to be a smarter and cost effective treatment for your eyes. The annual expenditure of lenses / spectacles along with the lens solutions and visits to the eye doctor has been calculated to be far more expensive in the long run as compared to one time laser vision correction procedure.