Imagine waking up every morning and seeing the world with perfect clarity without needing glasses or contact lenses. LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a revolutionary laser eye surgery that can make this a reality for you.
At Schmidt Family Eye Care, located in Fremont, Nebraska, with over 25 years of experience and a LASIK patient himself, Dr. Barrett Schmidt understands the desire for clear vision. We work closely with experienced LASIK surgeons to provide comprehensive care throughout your LASIK journey.
What LASIK is Really About
It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear dome at the front of your eye. This refractive surgery allows light to focus precisely on the retina, correcting eye conditions such as
- Nearsightedness (Myopia)
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
Who Qualifies for LASIK?
Ideal candidates for LASIK are individuals 18 and over with stable vision prescriptions who are in good general eye health. Factors such as corneal thickness, eye moisture levels, and overall eye structure are crucial in determining suitability for the surgery. Our team assesses these and other criteria during a comprehensive eye examination to ensure LASIK is the right choice for you.
How LASIK Surgery Can Benefit You or a Loved One
The procedure can improve your vision and quality of life by:
Eliminating or reducing your eyewear dependence: Enjoy the freedom of participating in activities without worrying about glasses slipping or contact lenses drying out.
Enhanced visual clarity: Experience sharper vision, especially in low-light conditions.
Improved self-confidence: Many patients feel more confident and self-assured without glasses or contact lenses.
Consultation to Clarity: Your LASIK Guide in Schmidt Family Eye Care
If you’re considering LASIK, the first step is to contact us for a comprehensive eye examination. During this exam, we will assess your eye health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery.
We collaborate closely with some of the leading LASIK surgeons in the region: Dr. Brandon Baartman at Vance Thompson Vision & Drs. John & James Liu at Omaha Eye & Laser Institute. These partnerships ensure you receive the highest standard of care throughout your LASIK journey. Dr. Schmidt will personally conduct all pre-operative and post-operative exams in our Fremont office, providing convenience and continuity of care from start to finish.
Your LASIK Journey: A Step-by-Step Look
Here’s an overview of what to expect as we guide you through the LASIK process:
Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive eye examination by Dr. Schmidt. This critical first step assesses your suitability for LASIK, discussing your vision needs and expectations. Please note that our trusted co-managing surgeons perform the actual LASIK surgery while we guide and support you throughout the process.
Creating the Corneal Flap: On the day of your surgery, the surgeon uses a specialized laser to create a thin flap in the cornea’s outer layer. This technique is crucial for accessing the underlying corneal tissue that needs to be reshaped.
Reshaping the Cornea: The heart of the LASIK procedure involves another laser that reshapes the cornea’s underlying tissue. This step corrects refractive errors by adjusting the cornea’s shape to improve vision.
Repositioning the Flap: After reshaping the cornea, the surgeon repositions the corneal flap to its original location. The flap naturally adheres to the underlying cornea, starting the healing process without stitches.
Life After LASIK: The Difference You’ll Experience
Most patients experience temporary discomfort, such as dryness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision, immediately following the procedure. These symptoms typically subside within a few days as your eyes heal.
Post-Operative Care Tips
Following your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully will ensure optimal healing and results.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Resist the urge to rub your eyes after LASIK. This is vital to prevent dislodging the corneal flap, which is healing.
- Wear Eye Protection: Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from bright lights and UV exposure. Also, consider wearing protective eyewear while sleeping to avoid accidental rubbing.
- Rest Your Eyes: Give your eyes ample rest in the first few days following surgery. Avoid straining them with activities like reading, using the computer, or watching TV for long periods.
- Stay Clear of Water Activities: Keep water out of your eyes to avoid contamination. This means no swimming, hot tubs, or exposing your eyes directly to shower water for at least a week. However, you should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This helps the moisture levels in your eyes and enables you to avoid complications.
- Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all post-operative appointments with your eye doctor. These check-ups are essential to monitor your healing process and ensure your eyes recover correctly.
Long-term Impacts of LASIK Surgery
LASIK is a highly successful and safe procedure, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. However, the procedure is permanent, and your vision will not return to its pre-operative state. Regular eye exams are essential to monitor your health and vision over time.
Schedule Your Consultation in Fremont
At Schmidt Family Eye Care, we are committed to providing personalized care and comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about your vision correction options. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Barrett Schmidt understands the benefits of LASIK, having undergone the procedure himself. He can provide valuable insights and address your concerns based on his firsthand experience.
Please note: By appointment only!