About LASIK: Laser vision correction is becoming a popular alternative for correcting vision problems. There are several different types of laser vision correction available. The most common of these procedure is LASIK. LASIK (laser assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery used to correct vision problems by reshaping the cornea with an excimer laser. LASIK is the most popular type of refractive surgery because there is a relative lack of pain and quality vision is achieved very quickly, often the very next day. Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism can be treated with LASIK.
During LASIK:
- You will lie back in a reclining chair.
- An anesthetic drop will be placed in your eye and the area around your eyes will be cleaned.
- A lid speculum will be inserted to hold your eyelids open.
- A ring will be placed on your eye.
- The microkeratome, a mechanical blade apparatus, will be used to cut a flat in your cornea.
- The flap will be lifted and the exposed corneal tissue will be dried.
- You will focus on a fixation light.
- The doctor will start the laser. You may smell a burning smell at this time as the corneal tissue is removed.
- When the laser is finished, the corneal flap is re-positioned.
After LASIK:
- Plan to take a few days off after the procedure.
- A shield will be taped over your eye to protect it since no stitches are used.
- You may have foreign body sensation, burning or itching in your eyes and your eyes may water and appear red.
- Your vision may be hazy or blurry. Some patients report seeing halos or glare around lights.
- You should NOT rub your eyes.
