How does LASIK work

LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular surgical procedure that corrects vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is a highly effective and safe solution for individuals looking to reduce their dependency on glasses or contact lenses. But have you ever wondered how LASIK actually works?

LASIK involves reshaping the cornea, the transparent front surface of the eye, to improve the way light is focused onto the retina. By altering the cornea’s curvature, LASIK helps the eye to properly focus light, resulting in clearer vision. The procedure is quick and typically painless, with patients experiencing improved vision almost immediately after the surgery.

The first step in the LASIK procedure is to create a small flap on the cornea using a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. The surgeon then lifts this flap to access the underlying corneal tissue. This step is crucial as it allows for the reshaping of the cornea without the need for complete removal or replacement.

Once the cornea is exposed, an excimer laser is used to precisely remove a thin layer of tissue from the cornea. This laser uses ultraviolet light energy to break the molecular bonds of the corneal tissue without generating any heat. This unique property ensures that the surrounding tissues remain unaffected, making LASIK a safe procedure.

The amount of tissue removed depends on the vision correction needed by the patient. To correct nearsightedness, the cornea is flattened by removing tissue from the center. On the other hand, farsightedness requires steepening the cornea by removing tissue around the edges. For patients with astigmatism, an irregularly shaped cornea, the excimer laser smooths and reshapes the cornea to improve vision.

After the necessary tissue is removed, the surgeon carefully repositions the corneal flap, smoothing it to prevent wrinkling or air bubbles. The flap adheres naturally without the need for stitches. The cornea begins to heal immediately, and patients are generally advised to rest and protect their eyes for a few days following the surgery.

One of the remarkable aspects of LASIK is the speed at which patients experience improved vision. Most individuals notice a dramatic improvement in their vision right after the surgery, with some even achieving 20/20 or better vision within hours. However, it’s important to note that it may take a few weeks or even months for the vision to stabilize and become fully optimized.

LASIK is a highly effective procedure, with the majority of patients experiencing long-term vision improvement. However, like any surgical procedure, it does come with potential risks and side effects. These may include dry eyes, glare, halos, or even a temporary decrease in visual acuity. However, advances in technology over the years have significantly reduced the likelihood of experiencing such complications.

In conclusion, LASIK is a revolutionary procedure that has transformed the lives of millions of people by offering a safe and effective solution to correct vision problems. By reshaping the cornea using lasers, LASIK helps the eye to properly focus light, resulting in improved vision. While risks and side effects exist, the benefits of LASIK far outweigh them for most patients.