How LASIK Works

You’ve undoubtedly heard the term LASIK eye surgery, and you may even know someone who has had the procedure done. But do you really know what steps are involved in a LASIK procedure?

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, commonly referred to as LASIK, is a procedure to treat farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. In these vision conditions, the cornea is shaped so light does not focus properly onto the retina so clear vision is not achieved. LASIK uses a laser to actually reshape the cornea so light does focus properly.

LASIK is not performed on a “whim.” An experienced LASIK surgeon will perform a detailed eye exam to determine your exact vision characteristics and determine if LASIK could help or hinder your vision. This procedure isn’t right for everyone; some people have corneas that are too thin to support the procedure…others have pre-existing eye health or medical conditions that will interfere with healing.

LASIK Steps

 

1.  Numbing drops are placed into your eye and a lid speculum keeps the eyelids open
2. A corneal flap is created using either a hand-held microkeratome surgical tool or a femtosecond laser. Once the flap is created it is gently folded back to give the surgeon access to the underlying corneal tissue
3. Corneal tissue is removed/reshaped using a computer-controlled excmier laser
4. The corneal flap is put back into place where it begins to heal without stitches.

The entire process only takes a few minutes per eye and most people report that it is virtually painless.

There is a whole lot more to know about LASIK! If you are curious, contact Lipstock LASIK and Cataract Center today at 804-288-1543 or lipstocklaser.com to schedule your free LASIK Consultation to get all of the facts about LASIK.

The Effect of Vision Problems on the Collective American Wallets

Prevent Blindness America (PBA) recently commissioned researchers from the University of Chicago to determine how the cost of vision-related diseases affects the American economy. What they discovered is that the long-term effects of eye diseases/disorders and vision loss cost our government, insurance companies and patients approximately $139 billion every year…and there is no growth end in sight. The largest burden, $71.6 billion, falls on patients and their families. This makes eye diseases/disorders one of the most expensive medical conditions in the United States.  

Vision problems and vision loss can make a huge impact on a person’s ability to lead a productive professional and personal life. Having regular eye exams can act as a safeguard to stay on top of any obvious or “silent” vision changes that may be developing and allow patients to take proactive measures to preserve their sight. Eye exams can even help detect the presence of other medical conditions, such as diabetes.

At Lipstock LASIK & Cataract Center in Richmond, our goal is to help our patients live fuller lives through eye care. We do this through medical procedures like cataract surgery and LASIK eye surgery, as well as treatment/maintenance of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. We work hard to help our patients see with clarity to perform everyday tasks and remain productive members of society.  

Eye disease prevention, maintenance and research will go a long way toward keeping vision medical costs in check. We encourage you to schedule an eye exam/Vision Consultation today. Call 804-288-1543 or visit lipstocklaser.com.

(The University of Chicago report is titled: "Cost of Vision Problems: The Economic Burden of Vision Loss and Eye Disorders in the United States.")

LASIK and Dry Eye

If you are considering LASIK vision correction surgery but have the pre-existing condition of Dry Eye Syndrome, it is advisable to get your Dry Eye condition under control before undergoing LASIK. One of the potential complications of LASIK is Dry Eye, as it can cause a temporary decrease in tear production and affect healing after surgery. If your eyes are already dry, LASIK could worsen your condition and cause your eyes to feel unusually dry and uncomfortable. This could last just temporarily or for months or years after surgery.

Ways to Treat Dry Eye

Your Dry Eye condition may be treatable so you can pursue LASIK eye surgery. Your doctor may order prescription eye drops to lubricate your eyes, help your body produce more tears or reduce inflammation. Punctal plugs, which are inserted to block tear drainage, may also help restore moisture to the eyes.

The Experts Agree

“Patients with pre-existing dry eye should be cautioned that refractive surgery, particularly laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), may worsen their dry eye condition.” (Nettune & Pflugfelder, 2010)

“Patients who have dry eye and are considering refractive surgery should have the dry eye treated before surgery.” (American Academy of Ophthalmology Basic and Clinical Science Course Subcommittee, 2011)

The only way to know for sure if your eyes are ready for LASIK is by scheduling a comprehensive LASIK Consultation to identify Dry Eye and other conditions. Dr. Lipstock at Lipstock LASIK & Cataract Center offers free LASIK Consultations at his Richmond office. Schedule yours now at 804-288-1543 or lipstocklaser.com.

Moo-ve Into Better Vision with LASIK

Did you know that July 18, 2013 is Cow Appreciation Day? In honor of this unique observance, here are a few fun facts about how cows’ eyes differ from human eyes:  

• Cow eyes are larger
• Cows cannot move their eyes like humans; they must turn their heads
• Cow eyes glow at night
• Cow eyes are oval shaped
• Cows have only black irises

At Lipstock LASIK and Cataract Center, we’re not in the business of treating cow’s eyes; however, we are in the business of correcting the human vision problems of myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism through LASIK eye surgery.

LASIK won’t make your eyes glow at night like cows, but it just might free you from the need for contacts or glasses. The LASIK procedure actually changes the shape of your cornea so light can be focused onto your retina properly, resulting in clear vision, even 20/20 vision, for many patients.

If you’d be interested in learning more about how you might be able to moo-ve into better vision with LASIK, contact Lipstock LASIK and Cataract Center today to schedule your free LASIK Consultation in Richmond. Call us today at 804-2888-1543 or visit us online at lipstocklaser.com.

Happy 4th of July!

Have a safe and fun 4th of July from Lipstock LASIK & Cataract Center!