LASIK stands for laser in situ keratomileusis. This means a laser is used underneath a corneal flap (in situ) to reshape the cornea (keratomileusis). It is a highly specialized laser procedure to treat refractive errors, improve vision, and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. This procedure alters the shape of the cornea to make the vision clearer.
Lasik Procedure
Refractive surgery is not for everyone.
Firstly, the patient must undergo a complete eye exam to find out if he/she is a candidate for surgery
This procedure is carried by a specially trained and experienced eye surgeon under local anaesthesia using local anaesthetic drops.
A precise, thin hinged corneal flap is created using a microkeratome.
The flap is pulled back to expose the underlying corneal tissue
The excimer laser reshapes the cornea in a unique pre-specified pattern. This pattern is unique for each patient.
The flap is then gently repositioned onto the underlying cornea without sutures.
Post Operation Care
Vision is blurred and hazy post-surgery which improves in a day.
Strenuous activities are not recommended for a week.
The recovery is rapid
Eye drops are prescribed for a week after surgery
Few eyedrops are required to be used for 3 months
It is done on an outpatient basis
The eyes stabilize within three months after LASIK surgery.
Benefits of LASIK
LASIK can correct a wide range of refractive errors including nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism of varying degrees.
LASIK can be repeated to correct the vision further.