What is Laser Eye Surgery?
Since the 1950s, ophthalmologists have been perfecting the process of radial-keratotomy. The introduction of lasers in medical or operational procedures (1983) opened doors to the capability of corrective eye surgery moving forward. Since then, this specific vision corrective procedure has seen a tremendous upward hike, in terms of popularity and acclaim. Today, Katzen Eye Group is the regional leader of LASIK eye surgery and fulfills the promise of reclaiming vision and improved eyesight.
A brief history of laser eye surgery
Corrective eye surgery has advanced tremendously over the years. After initial testing in 1950, the concept of radial-keratotomy eye surgery was then transferred and studied closely in Russia. During the 1970s, Doctor Srinivasin managed to successfully introduce an excimer laser, useful for reshaping corneal tissue. This concept was further researched and experimented well into the 1980s, when a New York based Ophthalmologist tested the waters regarding photorefractive keratectomy.
In 1991, the United States became the first country to carry out a LASIK eye procedure. It was quickly noted how this specific operation differed from its predecessors and allowed the corneal flap to stay intact, leading to a notably faster recovery.
About LASIK
LASIK is one of the safest surgical procedures in existence, boasting a 95 – 97% success rate. However, you might still have questions or slight hesitation. That’s where we come in. Katzen Eye Group exists to help you better familiarize yourself with the nature and duration of the procedure.
So…how does LASIK work?
Before the LASIK procedure begins, an Ophthalmologist releases a few drops of anesthesia onto the eye to provide a numbing and prevent blinking.
From there, an excimer laser is employed to reshape the patient’s cornea. Reshaping the cornea aids the eye in better focusing rays of light onto the retina, thus improving vision. With the help of a precise blade or laser, the surgeon will fold back the corneal flap and carry out the necessary corrections – either removing corneal tissue, reshaping an irregularly-shaped cornea, or adjusting the steepness of the cornea.
In total, the procedure takes about 20 minutes to complete and then you’re good to go!
