What
is LASIK?
The
terms “laser
eye surgery” and “LASIK”
have become almost synonymous in the
past few years. However, LASIK (laser
in situ keratomileusis) is actually
the most popular type of laser eye
surgery. Its popularity stems from
its relative simplicity, its short
surgical and recovery time, and its
lower risk of complications (when
compared to some other procedures
such as PRK).
LASIK
corrects refractive
errors by using a laser to reshape
the cornea of the eye (its outer portion).
LASIK can be used to treat three of
the most common vision problems: nearsightedness,
farsightedness, and astigmatism. Together
these problems are known as refractive
errors. Because LASIK treats them,
it is a type of refractive surgery.
The
LASIK procedure itself follows six
key steps:
1. The eye is numbed with special
drops.
2. The eyelid is then held open by
a device called a speculum.
3. Next, an instrument known as a
microkeratome is used to cut partway
through the cornea, creating a flap.
4. The surgeon carefully pulls back
the corneal flap to reveal the underlying
tissue.
5. The laser is used to change the
curvature of the eye.
6. The flap is then laid back into
place, where it heals without stitches.
After surgery, most
patients recover quickly. A protective
eye shield may need to be worn temporarily,
and follow-up appointments will be
necessary. Because the corneal flap
provides protection for the eye, most
patients do not experience significant
pain. Minor discomfort can usually
be alleviated with medications. Most
patients notice an improvement in
vision the first day following surgery.
Like
any surgical procedure, LASIK does
carry some risk
of complications. The most common
problems include: dry eyes, glare,
halos, diminished night vision, over-correction,
and under-correction.
Click
on any of the Metro Areas to Find
a LASIK Doctor:
Beverly
Hills | Long
Beach/Downtown and Mid-Cities
North
Orange County |
South
Orange County/Irvine |
West
LA/Santa Monica | Inland
Empire | Newport
Beach/Coastal |
San
Fernando Valley/San Gabriel Valley/Pasadena
| Ventura
|
