LASIK is an FDA-approved vision correction procedure that allows patients the opportunity to reduce their dependence on glasses, contact lenses, and other visual aids. The procedure is safe, effective, and has very little recovery time. LASIK vision correction has been around for over twenty years, and laser LASIK eye surgery has been performed in the United States for over a decade.
How LASIK Works
When an individual is unable to see well and requires glasses or contact lenses, it is typically caused by refractive errors, namely myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Whether an eye is able to see well naturally or has refractive error is determined by the shape of the cornea, or the outermost layer of the eye.
LASIK surgery allows eye surgeons to reshape the cornea to an ideal shape for refracting light, correcting refractive errors and restoring vision.
During LASIK eye surgery, a thin flap is created in the cornea using IntraLase laser technology. The flap is then lifted, and an excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal tissue underneath. After this, the flap is then positioned back over the cornea.
The entire procedure takes less than ten minutes per eye, and the corneal flap is able to heal without the use of stitches – the eye repairs itself with the aid of prescription eye drops.
Once the cornea has been reshaped, the eye is able to process images with clarity and vision is drastically improved!
Who is a Good Candidate for LASIK Surgery?
The best (and only) way to officially determine LASIK candidacy is a full evaluation from an experienced eye doctor, like Dr. Ravi Shah. However, there are several preliminary qualifications for LASIK candidacy that can help to determine if you may be a candidate.
Good candidates for LASIK:
- Are at least eighteen years of age
- Have had a stable vision prescription for over a year
- Meet surgical requirements for corneal thickness
- Do not currently have eye diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts
- Are not currently pregnant
To further determine LASIK candidacy, Dr. Ravi Shah will evaluate factors such as ocular and medical history, results from a thorough eye examination, corneal mapping, and more. Not all patients are ideal candidates for LASIK eye surgery, but could qualify for alternative procedures such as Refractive Lens Exchange or PRK.
Why Choose Dr. Ravi Shah for LASIK Eye Surgery
Dr. Ravi Shah is an experienced, board-certified refractive surgeon and corneal specialist practicing in Allentown and Bethlehem, PA. Dr. Shah is a member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
With years of experience in laser vision correction, astigmatism correction, and a keen familiarity with corneal structures, his reputation for excellent vision correction in Pennsylvania precedes him.
Dr. Shah has authored multiple clinical research studies and has participated in FDA clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy of the Corneal Collagen Crosslinking procedure (a new, recently approved corneal surgery). Dr. Shah’s vision care philosophy revolves around utilizing the most advanced technologies and working closely with each patient to achieve the best surgical outcomes.
For a consultation and to learn how Dr. Shah can help to restore your vision, request your LASIK evaluation today!
