eye care 1 | Page 29

Am I the right candidate for Lasik? Ideal LASIK candidate :  Doesn’t have any autoimmune disorders  Doesn’t have any eye infections  Doesn’t have eye injuries  Is not pregnant  Is not nursing  Is over 18 years old  With stable vision for at least a year and a healthy cornea How Lasik works? 1. The eye is numbed with drops and gently held open so the patient will not blink or move. 2. A little corneal flap is made in the outer layer of the eye, either with a Microkeratome blade (Standard LASIK) or a Femtosecond laser beam (FemtoLASIK). 3. A powerful and extremely precise Excimer laser’s cool beam carefully reshapes the ‘stroma’ or center of the cornea within only a few minutes. 4. The corneal flap is lightly replaced and starts to heal immediately. 5. The eyes may feel dry and irritated that day as the healing process begins. The eye doctor provides special drops to keep the eye moist and comfortable. Preparing for LASIK: You are required to stop wearing contact lenses prior to the surgery • You can take your regular medications after consulting with your doctor • No perfume, earrings or any make-up on the day of surgery • Eat a light breakfast or lunch • Wear loose comfortable clothing • You must be accompanied by a responsible adult on the day of surgery 26