Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) combines incisional and laser surgery to improve myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. In LASIK, a drop of anesthetic is applied to numb the eye. The surgeon uses a special instrument to cut into the cornea. A portion of the cornea is peeled back to create a flap and expose the inner portion of corneal tissue. The eye is positioned under an excimer laser, which has been programmed to remove microscopic amounts of the internal corneal tissue. Removal of the tissue changes the curvature of the cornea. If the patient is nearsighted, tissue from the central part of the cornea is removed to decrease the curvature or flatten the cornea. If a patient is farsighted, tissue in the peripheral part of the cornea is removed to increase the curvature of the cornea. To correct for astigmatism, selected tissue at certain angles is removed to insure that the cornea curves equally in all directions. After the laser energy is applied, the flap is returned to its original position. The corneal tissue has extraordinary natural bonding qualities that allow effective healing without the use of stitches.
Results from LASIK are excellent with 95% of patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes. Improved vision is often possible on the day following the surgery. Eye drops and night protection are necessary for designated periods of time.
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