What Is LASIK?

LASIK is an acronym for laser in situ keratomileusis, which is a long-winded, scientific way of saying refractive surgery. LASIK can be used to treat myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (irregularities in the surface of the cornea). LASIK is a procedure that was developed to reduce reliance on corrective lenses by reshaping the cornea.

The First Step in LASIK

The first step in a LASIK procedure is to see if you are a good candidate. The surgeon performs a baseline evaluation to determine your eligibility. Because contact lenses can reshape the cornea and mask astigmatism, one should stop wearing contact lenses for a period of time before the evaluation. Contact the eye surgeon’s office to find out how long they require you do without your contacts before the appointment. In addition to a medical history, the surgeon will discuss LASIK procedures with you and examine your eye to determine if you are a good candidate.

The LASIK Surgery

During surgery, you will be placed in a reclining chair and the doctor will numb your eyes. The surgeon will also use an instrument to hold your eyelids open, and will apply other devices as needed to prepare your eye for the actually procedure. The doctor will then cut a disc-shaped flap in your cornea, leaving a tissue hinge on one side, and lift it up to dry.

The doctor will have you stare at a light and keep your eyes fixed on it. When you eye is positioned properly, the doctor will use the laser to remove a small amount of corneal material. Then the flap is put back on the eye and an eye shield placed over it. Your doctor will then give you all the instructions you need for post surgery eye care.

Following LASIK Surgery

Although you may experience some discomfort after surgery, often a mild pain reliever will take care of it. You must remember not to rub your eyes even if they water-you could move the flap. You will go back for periodic follow-up visits, and will remove the shield between 24 and 48 hours after the procedure.

You will also have to restrict activity for a few days to several weeks, and under no circumstances should you use contact lenses, even if your vision is off. Remember that it can take months for your vision to stabilize completely, and some fluctuation may occur. During this time, your eye surgeon will monitor your progress carefully.

Most people have experienced great success with LASIK, both in the short and in the long term.  If you are interested in LASIK, you will want to consult with a specialist to see if LASIK is right for you.