What is LASIK procedure?

LASIK is a surgical procedure that can reduce a person's dependency on glasses or contact lenses by permanently changing the shape of the cornea (the delicate clear covering on the front of the eye). For clear vision, the eye's cornea and lens must bend (refract) light rays properly, so that images are focused on the retina . If the light rays aren't clearly focused on the retina, the images you see are blurry.

This blurriness is referred to as a "refractive error". It is caused by an imperfectly shaped eyeball, cornea, or lens. LASIK uses an ultraviolet laser to precisely remove corneal tissue to correct the shape for better focusing. LASIK eye surgery is performed on people who use glasses or contact lenses because of myoipia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.

Before LASIK: A complete eye examination will be done before surgery to make sure your eyes are healthy. Once this is determined, the doctor will measure the curve of the cornea and the size and position of the pupils, the shape of the eyes (making sure there are no irregularities that would prevent LASIK as an option), and the thickness of the cornea (making sure there will be enough tissue left, once the cornea is cut and reshaped).

During LASIK: A special instrument (a microkeratome) is applied to the cornea, creating a thin flap of corneal tissue. The flap remains attached to the eye at one end. Next, the laser is used to reshape the cornea. The flap is then put back into position and the procedure is complete.

After LASIK: After LASIK, the majority of people are able to pass a drivers license test without glasses or contacts. Many patients report immediate improvement within the first day. For others, vision may be blurry and fluctuate during the healing period. Since and individual's situation, healing powers and tissues are unique, not everyone should expect to achieve full vision correction. People with high to severe levels of myopia or astigmatism may require another procedure to achieve the desired results. People with extremely strong glasses for example, may end up with significant correction, but still need mild to moderate strength lenses part of the time for some activities.

FAQ

Q: Are there any LASIK Complications?

A: According to many sources, there are only less than 1% of vision-threatening complications.

Q: Is LASIK for everybody?

A: To be eligible for a LASIK surgery the eye must be in good health and vision must be stable. However, some people are better candidates than others and some may be better suited to another refractive surgery technique or a combination of techniques. Consultation with the doctor prior to surgery is important to determine estimated benefits and possible complications.

Q: How long does it take to recover from a LASIK surgery?

A: LASIK is performed on an outpatient basis using an "eye drop" anesthetic to numb the eye for painless surgery. LASIK normally takes less than 30 minutes and the patient leaves shortly after the procedure. An eye shield may be placed on the eye for temporary protection and to keep you from rubbing your eye in your sleep. Medication drops are used to prevent infection and promote healing. After LASIK, patients usually return to their normal lifestyle quickly with very few restrictions during the short healing time.

Q: Can LASIK improve age-related reading difficulties?

A: LASIK surgery cannot improve vision due to presbyopia since the laser has no effect on the crystalline lens. People may need reading glasses for small print.