One of the most popular options out there for advanced vision correction is LASIK surgery. This option for advanced eye care has benefited millions of people all over the world. Many prospective patients wonder what LASIK entails and how effective it really is. Let’s take a moment right now to go over some of the basics.
About LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery involves the reshaping of the cornea so that light passes through it properly and focuses on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. In order to reshape the cornea, the first step is the creation of a flap in the topmost later of the cornea. Through this flap, corneal reshaping is possible through the use of a safe laser.
Vision Problems That LASIK Surgery Can Address
LASIK is ideal for addressing refractive errors, which you may know better as the following:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia) – Nearsightedness refers to instances in which it is easier to see objects that are nearby while objects at a distance are blurry.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia) – Farsightedness refers to instances in which it is easier to see objects that are at a distance while objects nearby are blurry.
- Astigmatism – Astigmatism is a general blurring of vision that often accompanies nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Overall Rate of Success
Though the success can vary from patient to patient, the vast majority of those who undergo LASIK surgery achieve excellent results. It’s estimated that around 92 percent of patients achieve vision of 20/40 or better.
Overall Rate of Patient Satisfaction
As with general success rates, the rate of patient satisfaction from LASIK surgery is quite high. It’s estimated that between 92 to 98 percent of LASIK patients are satisfied with the results that have been achieved.
Does success and satisfaction mean 20/20 vision?
No. In fact, it’s not a good idea for 20/20 vision to be guaranteed since the severity of a person’s refractive error and other factors can affect the overall results of LASIK surgery. According to some findings, roughly 55 percent of LASIK patients will achieve 20/20 vision or better.
What Prospective Patients Should Make of These Numbers
While there are no certainties regarding 20/20 vision, these success and satisfaction numbers do reveal that LASIK patients are able to see just fine without glasses and experience tolerable side effects that subside with time.
With this in mind, recent advances in LASIK technology have improved the results that can be achieved with LASIK, particularly when it comes to minor vision issues such as halos, glare, and light sensitivity.
What else should I know about LASIK surgery?
There is a lot more to LASIK surgery than knowing success rates and patient satisfaction numbers. During the consultation process, you will be able to learn about all of the risks and benefits of LASIK surgery in detail, allowing you to make wise decisions about treatment.
Learn More About LASIK Surgery
If you would like to learn more about LASIK surgery and your many other options for advanced treatments of refractive error, be sure to contact our Austin vision correction center today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible results in eye health.