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Lasik (Laser Vision Correction)

The term LASIK stands for LaSER IN SItu Keratomileusis. Laser vision corrections is a treatment for problems such as myopia and astigmatism using an excimer laser, the latest in vision technology, and the microkeratome. The laser carefully reshapes a thin layer of the cornea in order to flatten the overall curvature, thereby improving focus.

The eye is anesthetized with eye drops, and a suction ring is aligned with the cornea. The purpose of the suction ring is to prevent the eye from moving during surgery.

The pressure of the suction ring increases, keeping the cornea still while the microkeratome operates. The microkeratome contains a blade that moves back and forth at high speeds in order to create a flap on the cornea. A portion of the cornea is left connected in order to act as a hinge.

This flap is then folded back in order to expose the middle portion of the cornea. The excimer laser then removes some of the central cornea tissue and reshapes the cornea. The amount and position of the tissue removed depends on the severity of the near-sightedness.

Once this is complete the flap is finally placed back in it's original position. The front of the eye is now flatter since the flap aligns with the new surface. The flatter cornea allows light to focus more directly on the retina, correcting the previous nearsightedness.

Possible problems and Shortcomings

LASIK does not correct presbyopia, which is the eyes inability to focus on close objects. This condition will appear during a persons early forties and eventually plateau during the sixties. Glasses will become necessary for computer or other close work.

LASIK can also complicate designing intraocular lens implants for patients about to undergo cataract surgery.

LASIK is performed frequently without problems, although there are still some risks associated with the surgery. Irregularities in the cornea, such as wrinkling or swelling, can cause visual distortions. The eye can also become dry. In some rare cases the cornea will become too thin and begin to bulge, causing the eye to become near-sighted or astigmatic again. In some people, for the first few months after surgery, they will notice irregularities in vision throughout the day. Glares, glows (haloes), and a reduce in night vision has also been reported by many patients.

LASIK may be right for you if...

  • You would like to depend less on glasses or contacts
  • Your active lifestyle is affected by wearing outer lenses
  • You do not have a active eye disease
  • You are not nursing or going to become pregnant in the near future
  • Your employer does not have restrictions to refractive surgery