LASIK

What is LASIK?

LASIK is a type of refractive surgery that involves using a laser to reshape the surface of the eye (cornea) in order to improve your eye’s ability to focus. This kind of laser eye surgery can be useful for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.

Who should consider LASIK?

People that are most likely to benefit from LASIK include those that are over 21 years old, have no major medical eye disease like cataracts or thin/diseased corneas, and those with a stable eyeglasses prescription. Before moving forward with LASIK, the ophthalmologist needs to examine your eyes and check your overall eye health, the thickness of your corneas and your refractive error. You should also talk to the surgeon about whether other procedures like PRK might be more appropriate for you.

Do I still need glasses after LASIK?

LASIK will reduce your need for glasses and/or contact lenses. Sometimes, it can eliminate their need entirely. 

What can I expect on the day of my procedure?

After placing numbing eye drops, the surgeon will place small devices on your eye to keep it from moving. With a microkeratome or a laser, your ophthalmologist will make a paper-thin flap in the cornea tissue. The ophthalmologist folds the flap back and then reshapes your cornea using a laser. The surgeon has already programmed the laser with your specific eye measurements. After reshaping the cornea, your eye surgeon folds the flap back down and secures it into position. The flap attaches on its own in 2–3 minutes, where it will heal in place. You may be asked to wear an eye shield for a few days to protect the eye while it heals. You can use special eye drops to reduce dryness and help your eye heal.