Understanding LASIK

A femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap which is then gently moved, like a page of a book. The resulting exposed cornea is then reshaped with a second laser (called an excimer) resulting in perfectly corrected vision within seconds. The flap is then gently replaced back to it’s original location and acts as a natural bandage. This is the major advantage of lasik over older types of refractive surgery (such as PRK) because the “bandage effect” of the flap allows for rapid healing (reduced pain and rapid visual recovery).

Side effects of lasik are mild and include temporary dry eyes, and foreign body sensation. Patients may experience night time glare or halo for a few days, which quickly resolves with normal healing.

Complications of lasik are extremely rare and are ALL treatable. These include infection, swelling or inflammation under the flap (diffuse lamellar keratitis). Very infrequently, the corneal flap may slightly shift immediately after surgery or later, from eye trauma.

Flap repositioning is an quick, easy, and painless option to restore excellence visual acuity in these uncommon situations.

Ideal candidates for lasik are:

• Under 45
• Myopia (near-sightedness) up to -9.0D
• Hyperopia (far-sightedness) up to +3.0D
• Astigmatism up to 5.0D
• Suitable corneal thickness