LASIK
Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the foremost method of correction for the following vision defects:
- Short-sightedness (myopia) up to -8 dpt
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia) up to +3 dpt
- Corneal irregularity (astigmatism) 3 dpt
With this method a corneal flap is cut, and the laser ablates tissue in the cornea. Since its introduction in the early nineties, LASIK has enjoyed continuous further development and has been successfully used on millions of people. The number of patients has increased steadily. In the past two years, approximately 200,000 LASIK operations were performed in Germany.
Since 1999 the LASIK method has also been officially recognized by the German ophthalmic association (DOG) and the Professional society of ophthalmologists (BVA) for the treatment of vision defects.
The benefits of LASIK:
- The laser procedure is done beneath the cornea surface. This way corneal scarring is avoided
- The surgery takes just a few minutes and is painless because eye drops are used for local anesthetic.
- Surgery is performed in the outpatient department and you can return home directly afterwards.
- Your vision will be good after mere hours. You will be fit for day-to-day life after a just few days.
- The natural structure of the surface layers of the cornea is maintained, which aids in the healing process.
Who can benefit from LASIK surgery?
Basically, LASIK surgery is suitable for people with short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism who do not tolerate contact lenses or eyeglasses. In addition, laser treatment has been shown to be beneficial for certain professions. Nevertheless, LASIK surgery is not suitable for every patient.
Prerequisites:
- The patient must be at least 18 years of age.
- The vision defect should be stable, i.e. it should not have changed by more than 1 dpt in the past 2 to 3 years.
- The patient must not have any eye diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma, or any circulation problems in the retina.
- The cornea must have a certain minimum thickness.
- The pupils must not exceed a certain diameter.
Prior to surgery we always schedule a detailed consultation and a comprehensive preliminary examination to determine whether LASIK treatment is possible and reasonable for the patient.
