LASIK

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LASIK surgery is performed to permanently reshape the cornea to change the focus of the retina.  This focus change is made by removing small areas from the cornea, changing its curvature, and thereby changing its focusing power.

During the LASIK procedure, the surgeon cuts a small flap in the cornea, leaving one area connected to act as a hinge.  Next, a laser is used to remove small sections of the stroma, then the flap is replaced.

On surgery day, plan to arrive at the surgery center approximately one hour before your scheduled surgery time.  Once you have been checked in, you will begin to receive preparation for your procedure.  These preparations will include cleaning of your eye and instilling anesthetic numbing drops into the surgery eye.  You will also receive a sedative to help you relax.  You will receive nothing by injection – no needles in the eye!  When your eye is totally numb, a nurse will place an eyelid holder between the lids to stop any involuntary blinking.

At the conclusion of your procedure, you will receive additional eye drops along with instructions on how to use them, and your surgical eye may be shielded for protection.  You must not rub your eye!

The decision about whether or not to have LASIK is very important, and the decision can only be made by you.  The most important reason for having LASIK ophthalmic surgery is to reduce the need for eyeglasses.  Just remember, your ophthalmic professional cannot guarantee the requested results.

Serious complications with this type of ophthalmic procedure are extremely rare.  However, most all patients experience some side effects.  Most of these side effects are mild and eventually go away. 

To assist you in deciding if LASIK is right for you, your ophthalmic caregivers will give you reading material about the procedure that will assist you in making your decision.

Before making your decisions, research the alternatives to having LASIK, as LASIK is not the only procedure available to correct vision.