LASIK (Laser-Assisted In SituKeratomileusis), is a type of refractive eye surgery procedure performed by Ophthalmologists, and intended for correcting the vision in order to reduce a person's dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
What to Expect
Before the Surgery
About a week before the procedure, the doctor performs a complete eye examination, including a glaucoma test, retina exam, and a scanning of the corneas to determine their exact shape and thickness. With this information, the surgeon can then calculate the amount and locations of corneal tissue to be removed during the operation.
Patients who qualify for surgery (not everybody does) are usually prescribed an antibiotic to take beforehand to minimize the risk of infection. Doctors usually advice patients to stop wearing contact lenses (which can temporarily change the shape of the cornea), makeup, and lotions for at least a week before the procedure.
Lasik is not appropriate for people under 18, since vision and cornea shape changes continuously until this age.
During Surgery
Lasik is performed as outpatient surgery and with the patient completely awake and functional. An anesthetic eye drop numbs the surface of the eye. A mild sedative (such as valium) can be provided for anxious patients. The surgery takes 10 to 15 minutes per eye. The surgery is performed with a a computer system, which tracks the patient's eye position 4,000 times per second, redirecting laser pulses for precise placement. (Wikipedia)
After the Surgery
Healing is relatively fast and complications are rare. Some possible post-surgery problems include a slipped flap (when the corneal flap detaches from the rest of the cornea), infection, over or under correction (which could require a second surgery), scarring, and irregular astigmatism.
Some patients experience hazy or blurred vision. When this is generally temporary and goes away a few days after surgery, it may be permanent in some cases. Other temporary side effects include light sensitivity, dryness, and discomfort or pain. A mild burning sensation for a few hours after surgery is normal.