Posted by: Manhattan LASIK Center

LASIK or Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis is one of the most common elective surgical procedures in the world. Studies estimate that more than 600,000 procedures are performed in the United States every year. Laser vision correction has transformed the treatment options for patients who have refractive eye conditions, enabling them to see clearly with little to no reliance on prescription glasses or contact lenses. This gives them greater confidence and convenience when it comes to their vision.

 If you currently wear glasses or contact lenses but would like to find a permanent solution that gives you greater freedom and flexibility, LASIK could be the answer you are looking for.

Here’s everything that you need to know about LASIK and how it can benefit your vision.

LASIK: How it Works

Many people wonder how laser vision correction works. Firstly, it is important to be aware that while all laser vision correction surgeries involve reshaping the cornea of the eye, not all are carried out using exactly the same technique. LASIK laser eye surgery is unique in that it involves the creation of a flap in the cornea. Then, the cornea is shaped in line with the individual requirements of each patient.

  • Patients who are nearsighted (myopia) will have their cornea reshaped so that it is flatter than before.
  • Patients who are farsighted (hyperopia) will have their cornea made steeper.
  • Patients who have astigmatism will have their cornea made more even and regular in shape.

By changing the shape of the cornea, LASIK enables light to be refracted correctly so that it focuses more accurately on the retina for improved vision.

What to Expect From a LASIK Procedure?

The preparation for your LASIK laser eye surgery is as important as the procedure itself. This is because every eye is unique, and your LASIK surgeon in Manhattan, NY will need to carefully plan how your eye will need to be reshaped for you to achieve clear vision. This is done using an automated instrument called a corneal topographer, which is used to measure the curvature of the surface of the cornea. This equipment will create a 3d map of the surface of the cornea informing your LASIK surgeon in Manhattan, NY which areas of the cornea should be addressed.

LASIK laser eye surgery is performed using a local anesthetic, ensuring that the patient doesn’t experience any discomfort while their cornea is reshaped. Once the eyes are anesthetized, the first eye is positioned under the laser and an instrument is placed onto your eyelids to keep them wide open. A suction ring is then placed over the front of the eye to prevent movement and the laser is used to create the flap. After the flap is lifted, the laser is adjusted to perform the reshaping. The ZEISS VisuMax laser makes very precise and gradual ablations that remove microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea in line with your specific requirements. You may feel some pressure, but you shouldn’t experience any pain. Once the reshaping of one eye is complete, the flap is replaced and left to heal naturally.

After LASIK

Most patients are asked to stay in the office for at least a short while immediately following LASIK so that they can rest. During this time, it’s not unusual for your eyes to feel itchy and uncomfortable. Once you are discharged, you will need someone else to drive you home as you won’t be allowed behind the wheel until your surgeon has confirmed that your uncorrected vision meets the legal requirements to be able to drive.

It can take a few days for vision to stabilize following your LASIK treatment, so most surgeons recommend that you take at least 48 hours off of work. You will also be given a range of post-procedure instructions to follow, which will help to accelerate your healing and minimize your risk of developing complications during your recovery.

Cost of LASIK

Manhattan LASIK Center works with patients to ensure laser vision correction surgery is affordable. Manhattan LASIK Center offers No Interest Payment Plans for patients through CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit Financing. Although exact pricing can vary by the patient due to the level of prescription and the type of surgery, the price of LASIK at Manhattan LASIK Center starts at $2995. Patients will have the opportunity to discuss cost and financing options thoroughly during their FREE consultation.

If you’d like more information about the LASIK procedure, please don’t hesitate to give our knowledgeable LASIK team in Manhattan, NY a call at 212-759-9617.