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Whatever your reasons for wanting to improve your vision, you have no doubt
heard about the popularity of
cosmetic laser eye surgery. But you may still have questions. Is it a safe
procedure? What are the risks? How much will it help your vision?
If these concerns are stopping you from acting even though you would dearly love
to throw away your
contacts and glasses forever, then getting answers will help alleviate your
fears and let you decide if
cosmetic laser eye surgery is for you.
How does
laser eye surgery work?
Laser eye surgery clears vision by
reshaping the cornea in a non-invasive way-with a laser.
There are two well-known types (or brands) of
laser eye surgery, LASIK
and
PRK. Both of these surgeries do the same thing, however they differ in their
approach.
How safe is it?
While both laser eye surgery
procedures are considered low risk and can be done quickly, there are always
possible complications when having any surgery performed. Your eyes are very
delicate and there is no question about just how much you depend on your eyes.
It is important to understand all of the potential risks - including loss of
vision - that are possible.
The majority of people who undergo this procedure will experience discomfit or
pain for the days following the operation. Common side effects include blurred
vision and sensitivity to light. These are usually gone a couple of days later,
however, in some cases may persist for longer and may even be permanent. Other
complications (due to scarring) can potentially cause permanent damage to
vision, although additional surgery can sometimes correct this.
Every surgery has risks associated with infection and laser eye surgery is no
different. General wisdom has it that you only get one eye operated on at a time
so that you reduce the likelihood of getting an infection in both eyes. If you
do happen to get an infection then medication will clear it up quickly, as long
as you get it treated immediately.
Just like every other surgery, each individual will respond differently to a
surgery, and results cannot be guaranteed. Make sure you speak with your doctor
before your surgery, and contact your doctor immediately with any questions or
concerns after surgery.
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