What is LASIK?
Laser-Assisted In Situ Karatomilleusis (LASIK) is a precision technology used to correct vision problems. The procedure has considerably reduced the time and risks involved with laser eye surgery. Though it is called a surgical procedure, it doesn't take more than ten minutes per eye and needs only anaesthetic eye drops to be used pre-procedure.

LASIK corrects refractive vision problems by flattening the cornea and adjusts the image angle so a person can see clearly again.

LASIK treatment is available in most modern eye hospitals and clinics. Approximate costs of LASIK, inclusive of pre-treatment check-up and medications, are around Rs.25,000 for both the eyes. Make sure you get it done by a qualified and experienced medical expert.

Is LASIK for everyone?
Anyone above the age of 18 can go in for LASIK surgery, after consultation with an expert ophthalmologist. Inform your doctor of previous eye injuries, infections or other health complications.

How effective is LASIK?
Generally, myopia (far-sightedness) starting from -1 to - 20 can be treated with LASIK. Long-sightedness and cylindrical numbers are also completely treatable.

LASIK may not always correct vision problems completely. You could be left with some residual number. A person can undergo laser eye surgery twice, but it must be done in consultation with eye expert.

Pre-operative Care

• Discontinue wearing contacts at least a week prior to LASIK treatment. If you wear semi-soft lenses, discontinue wearing them two weeks before treatment.
• Use cleaning eye-drops for the prescribed period prior to the procedure.
• Treat and cure all eye infections (if any) before the treatment.

Post-Operative Concerns
Overall, LASIK isn't a painful procedure. However, there could be some post-operative effects of LASIK, which can be tackled with medical help. It is normal to experience a feeling of discomfort and teary eyes for up to 24 hours after the treatment.

It is important to follow all post-surgery care procedures.

• Overcorrection or undercorrection of vision is a very common phenomenon after LASIK. This problem usually disappears as the eyes slowly heal. If it doesn't, minor ophthalmologic procedures can correct it.
• You may experience dryness in the eyes, which can be treated with eye-drops.
• Sensitivity to glare or hazy vision for some days after the operation is a common occurrence. It will go away as the eyes slowly heal.
• As the protective moisture shield of the eye is removed in the operation, occurrence of eye infections is common. It is important to follow the precautions recommended by your eye expert to avoid further complications due to infection.

(With inputs from Ophthalmologists, Dr. Shivram Nadkarni and Dr. Darshana Gadgil)