 LASIK is the most commonly performed refractive procedure in the United States. This quick and painless procedure reduces the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses for clear vision.
LASIK, which stands for laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a form of refractive surgery that changes the way light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the cornea so that it focuses properly on the retina in the back of the eye and objects can be seen clearly. The procedure is effective for many patients with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.
During the procedure, a device called a microkeratome creates a flap in the outer layer of the cornea called the epithelium. Patients are given topical anesthesia and a mild sedative so they are awake but calm and cannot feel the instruments. The epithelial flap is lifted and an excimer laser beam adjusts corneal curvature so objects no longer appear blurry. The cornea is steepened for hyperopic patients, flattened for myopic patients, and made more spherical for patients with astigmatism. The flap is then closed.
The entire LASIK procedure takes only 15-30 minutes per eye, and patients are often ready to leave the office within an hour or two. A common complaint after surgery is sensitivity to light, but this will subside. Antibiotic eye drops will be prescribed for a few days, along with any other post-operative instructions. Full recovery takes a few weeks.
As with any procedure, you must first meet with your doctor to determine if the procedure is right for you. If you wear contact lenses you will be asked to remove them for a period of time both before your initial exam. This is
necessary
because contact lenses change the curve of your eye, and can disrupt the doctor's evaluation. Immediately before the procedure you will be asked to avoid the use of:
- Creams
- Lotions
- Makeup
- Perfumes
Use of these items around the eye area will also be restricted for a short period of time following the procedure in order to prevent infection and irritation. Sports, swimming, and other activities that risk damaging the tissues must also be avoided for a time, but other normal activities are not affected.
For more information about the procedure, email us at . LASIK is a 20-minute procedure with benefits that last a lifetime. But LASIK isn't for everyone. So before you make a decision, we encourage you to call our LASIK coordinator at for a complete LASIK evaluation.
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