Defining LASIK

While it has been around for quite some time, LASIK eye surgery has only recently been gaining a surge in popularity. This surgical procedure, which stands for laser in situ keratomileusis, uses laser technology to reshape the cornea. Studies have shown that 96% of LASIK surgery patients attained the vision improvement they wanted from the procedure.

How it works

The eye surgeon creates a thin flap on the surface of the cornea using microkeratome, and uses excimer laser to reshape the cornea in a pattern that has been pre-determined for the patient. The reshaping process is based on the type of refractive error the patient has: myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

Myopia or nearsightedness is the inability to view distant objects clearly. Hyperopia or farsightedness, works the opposite way as myopia, with the patient able to see an object clearly from afar, but poorly when closer to it. Astigmatism, on the other hand, can cause blurred vision regardless of distance.

Preparing for the surgery

It is important for patients to follow all the pre-surgery preparations that may be advised by their surgeons, including taking the prescribed medications. Likewise, those who are wearing contacts prior to the surgery may need to stay away from wearing these for around three weeks before the scheduled procedure. It would also be good to take a light meal before going for the surgery.