By Admin, BuyLocalBG.com, BuyLocalBg@gmail.com/
Thursday, March 3rd, 2011 10:00 AM CST
With the process of surgery on a persons an eyes it’s always best to trust those who went to school and were educated for Surgery, no matter what latest news stories say. In Bowling Green we have a very well regarded and award winning doctor performing Lasik on a daily basis with Dr. Rynerson of Rynerson Vision Care. But many today are still confused as to what Lasik actually is or what is involved.
WHAT IS TRADITIONAL LASIK?
LASIK is the latest advancement in laser vision correction for those with nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. It combines state-of-the-art computer technology with the precision of the excimer laser to gently reshape the cornea and permit light to focus more accurately on the retina without corrective lenses. LASIK is a brief outpatient procedure that requires only eye drops as an anesthetic, and many patients report improved vision within 24 hours.
HOW DOES LASIK WORK?
During LASIK, the excimer laser emits a cool ultra-violet light beam that accurately targets the area to be treated without damaging surrounding tissue. Each pulse of the laser disrupts molecular bonds between corneal cells to precisely remove tissue. The amount of refractive alteration required determines how much tissue is removed. Often, removing tissue about the thickness of a human hair will achieve the proper amount of visual correction.
THE LASIK PROCEDURE
A microkeratome is used to create a thin flap of corneal tissue.
The flap is laid back to access the inner layers of the cornea.
The excimer laser beam is directed to the areas of the cornea that need reshaping to improve vision.
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO HAVE LASIK?
If you are considering LASIK, we want you to know what to expect from the procedure.
BEFORE
Dr. Rynerson and his staff will perform a comprehensive eye examination to make sure your eyes are healthy and to determine the extent of your nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Precise measurements will be taken to establish the surgical plan and predict the amount of correction you will be able to achieve through LASIK.
DURING
You will recline in a specially designed chair and be given eye drops to completely numb your eye. An eyelid holder will be placed between your lids to prevent blinking. You will remain awake during the procedure and be instructed to look directly at a light above you.
This positions your eyes with our operating microscope and allows Dr. Rynerson to precisely direct the laser beam at the areas of the cornea that need to be reshaped to improve your vision.
Next, Dr. Rynerson will use a special instrument, called a microkeratome, to create a thin protective flap of corneal tissue. He will gently lay this flap back, then treat the inner layer of the cornea with the laser beam. Typically, this takes just a few moments, after which the corneal flap is returned to its original position where it will heal without the need for stitches.
AFTER
You will be instructed to rest your eyes at home for about 24 hours. You will also be informed about what to do, what not to do, and things to watch for during the initial healing period. By the day following surgery, you will probably be able to resume your normal activities, with vision that is already beginning to improve.
IS LASIK AFFORDABLE?
LASIK is very affordable. With traditional LASIK there is no fee for your initial consultation and evaluation, and the price of your LASIK surgery includes the actual surgery and your follow-up care. Plus, they offer a variety of attractive financing options they will be happy to discuss with you.
IS LASIK RIGHT FOR ME?
The decision to have LASIK is ultimately yours. LASIK patients need a healthy cornea and a prescription that has remained stable for at least a year. Those with certain medical conditions and pregnant women are generally not considered good candidates.
You also need to have a realistic expectation for LASIK and remember that the goal is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on corrective lenses. LASIK, usually, but not always, produces 20/20 vision. They cannot correct presbyopia, the natural aging of the eye that may require the use of reading glasses.
At Rynerson Vision Care in Bowling Green, they can arrange a consultation with Dr. Rynerson to help you determine if LASIK is right for you. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about the benefits and risks of LASIK, and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
