Laser Vision Correction (LASIK) Tuscaloosa

LASIK is a type of laser vision correction that addresses refractive errors. Good vision relies on a properly shaped cornea to direct light through the lens onto the retina that lines the back of the eye. Light signals are sent to the brain through the optic nerve and translated into crisp images. Refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism are caused by an abnormally shaped cornea, causing blurry eyesight at various focal points. Refractive surgery with LASIK reshapes the cornea for near-perfect vision.

LASIK Tuscaloosa

Our eye surgeon at Davis Eye Clinic is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and has helped countless patients correct refractive errors with LASIK laser vision correction. Dr. Thomas M. Davis, Jr., has provided high-quality eye care for over 32 years in Western Alabama. 

Candidates for LASIK 

LASIK candidates must meet a set of criteria to ensure a safe and effective procedure, including: 

  • At least 18 years old, though most patients do not qualify until their 20s;
  • A stable prescription, meaning vision has not changed for at least one year; 
  • Sufficient corneal tissue for the LASIK procedure without compromising eye health; 
  • Healthy eyes free from disease, infection and other conditions; 
  • Realistic expectations for LASIK results; and 
  • Refractive errors due to abnormally shaped cornea. 

LASIK candidates must wait until they’ve reached visual maturity to prevent vision changes after the procedure. High myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism may disqualify some patients, as may existing dry eye disease or uncontrolled diabetes. Pregnant or nursing women should wait to have LASIK until their body has returned to a normal state after childbirth and weaning.

Our eye doctors can determine LASIK candidacy during a comprehensive eye exam and will measure the cornea and check pupil size, refractive errors and ocular health.

The LASIK Procedure

Laser Eye Surgery Tuscaloosa

LASIK eye surgery is a quick procedure, taking 30 minutes or less for both eyes. An excimer laser corrects the cornea’s curvature while the patient looks at a target light. The cornea is reshaped based on the precise measurements from pre-operative visits that map the ocular surface and determine exact refractive errors. Patients typically hear a clicking sound while the laser contours the corneal surface, then the LASIK flap is folded back into position and its edges smoothened. The epithelial flap begins to re-adhere and the eye begins to heal and within minutes. 

LASIK Recovery 

After LASIK laser vision correction, a protective eye shield is used to shield the eyes for several hours after the procedure and when you sleep, for at least the first week. This eye shield prevents you from rubbing the eyes and disrupting healing. You may experience burning or scratchy sensations for a few hours. Our eye surgeon will prescribe special eye drops during LASIK recovery. Some over-the-counter artificial tears may be used to ease discomfort. The Davis Eye Clinic provides detailed post-op instructions for LASIK patients, but we encourage you to contact our office with questions or concerns while you heal. You will have several follow-up visits for the first year after LASIK to check your vision and recovery.

Contact the Davis Eye Clinic in Tuscaloosa About Laser Vision Correction 

If you’re tired of contact lenses and prescription eyeglasses, contact the Davis Eye Clinic to see if you qualify for LASIK. Call our Tuscaloosa, Alabama, office to schedule an appointment at (205) 556-9400 or fill out our online contact form.