LASIK and Ortho-K

How does LASIK work?

Think of your cornea (the clear front surface of your eye) like a slightly imperfect lens. LASIK eye surgery uses a precise laser to gently reshape this cornea. This allows light to focus more accurately on your retina, resulting in clearer vision.

Benefits of LASIK

• LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure.

• It can fix nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

• A consultation with an eye surgeon is crucial.

• It offers the potential for clear vision without glasses.

Possible Short-Term Side Effects

• Dry eyes: This is a common temporary side effect of LASIK. You might experience a gritty or sandy feeling. Usually managed with lubricating eye drops.

• Halos and glare: Some people may see rings or a hazy glow around lights, especially at night. This usually improves over weeks or months.

• Blurred vision: Your vision might not be perfectly clear immediately after surgery and can fluctuate for a bit.

• Discomfort or pain: You might feel some mild discomfort or a foreign body sensation in your eyes immediately after the procedure.

• Light sensitivity: Your eyes might be more sensitive to light in the initial days following surgery.

Potential Long-Term Risks and Considerations

• Dry eyes (chronic): In some cases, dry eye after LASIK can persist long-term.

• Night vision problems: While usually temporary, some individuals may experience ongoing issues with night vision, such as increased halos or glare.

• Undercorrection or overcorrection: The laser might not remove exactly the right amount of tissue, leading to needing glasses or contacts again (though often with a weaker prescription). Enhancement surgery might be an option.

• Astigmatism recurrence: In some cases, the original astigmatism can partially return over time.

• Rare complications: Although uncommon, more serious complications like infection, inflammation, or corneal issues can occur.

• Not everyone achieves perfect 20/20 vision: While many do, results can vary, and some people may still need glasses for certain tasks like reading.

• Cost of LASIK: The price of LASIK surgery can be a significant factor for some individuals.

• Not a solution for all vision problems: LASIK primarily corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It doesn't address age-related blurry near vision (presbyopia), which typically requires reading glasses later in life.

How does Ortho-K work?

Ortho-K, short for Orthokeratology, uses special custom-designed contact lenses that you wear overnight. While you sleep, these lenses gently reshape the surface of your cornea (the front of your eye).   

Benefits of Ortho-K

• Clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts.

• Non-surgical and reversible.

• May help slow down the progression of myopia in children and teens.

• Comfortable to wear while sleeping.

  
  

Think of it like this: the lenses act like a temporary mold for your eye. When you wake up and remove them, your cornea holds its new shape, giving you clear vision throughout the day – without needing glasses or contacts!

Possible Considerations and Temporary Effects

• Initial Adjustment Period: Getting used to wearing Ortho-K lenses overnight can take some time and may feel a bit strange initially.

• Temporary Blurred Vision Upon Removal: In the very beginning, your vision might not be perfectly clear immediately after taking the lenses out. It usually stabilizes quickly throughout the day.

• Risk of Infection: As with any type of contact lens wear, there's a small risk of eye infection if lenses aren't cleaned and handled properly. Good hygiene is crucial!

• Dry Eyes: Some individuals might experience temporary dry eyes with Ortho-K lenses, although this is often less common than with daytime wear.

• Lens Handling and Care: Ortho-K lenses require diligent cleaning and care, which might be more involved than with daily disposable lenses.

• Cost of Ortho-K: The initial cost of Ortho-K treatment, including the custom lens fitting and follow-up appointments, can be higher than regular contact lenses or glasses.

Potential Limitations and Long-Term Considerations

• Not Suitable for All Vision Problems: Ortho-K is most effective for mild to moderate nearsightedness (myopia) and sometimes astigmatism. It might not be a solution for higher prescriptions or other vision issues.

• Dependence on Lenses: To maintain clear daytime vision, you need to wear the Ortho-K lenses consistently overnight. If you stop wearing them, your vision will gradually return to its original state.

• Regular Follow-Up Appointments: Consistent visits with your Ortho-K doctor are necessary to monitor the fit and effectiveness of the lenses and ensure eye health. This adds to the overall time commitment and cost.

• Potential for Discomfort: While generally comfortable, some individuals might experience occasional discomfort or irritation from the lenses.

• Slower Vision Correction: Unlike LASIK, which offers immediate vision correction, achieving the full effect with Ortho-K can take several days or even a couple of weeks.

At Vision Looky Optical, we offer pre-LASIK management to assess whether you’re a suitable candidate for surgery and provide a doctor referral form for a trusted specialist. We also provide post-LASIK care, working closely with your eye doctor to co-manage your recovery and ensure the best visual outcomes. Visit us today or call 469-469-1338 to learn more! 

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