The LASIK Procedure The Laser Vision Correction Procedure
LASIK is currently the most common type of laser vision correction procedure. It is an extremely effective outpatient procedure that is suitable for low, moderate, and higher prescriptions. It can be used to correct severe prescriptions, and is currently one of the most commonly performed healthcare procedures in North America. Laser vision correction uses a cool laser beam of light to gently reshape the front surface of your eye. Each pulse of the laser can remove 39-millionths of an inch of tissue in 12-billionths of a second. This enables an experienced surgeon to acheive remarkable accuracy while maintaining excellent control throughout the procedure.
Prior to the procedure, an extremely detailed map of your eyes' surface is created by a computer and is then used by your surgeon to calibrate the laser to your exact prescription. Before going into the laser room, your technician will put a few anesthetic drops in to numb the eye and prevent pain. Once the laser has been properly calibrated, your surgeon will place an eyelid holder in your eye to keep it open throughout the procedure. Your surgeon then uses a microkeratome (an automated microsurgical instrument similar in design to a carpenter's plane) to create a corneal flap, that has a thickness of approximately 1/4 of the cornea's depth. The cool laser beam is then used to precisely and gently reshape the cornea. When your surgeon is finished, the flap is carefully put back into place and the eyelid holder is removed. Over the next few days the flap will heal and bond securely. The entire procedure takes only about five minutes to complete and the laser is on each eye for less than one minute for an average prescription. After your procedure is complete, you will relax in the recovery room for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, additional drops will be placed in your eyes to keep them well lubricated. You may also be given protective eye shields that will prevent you from rubbing your eyes in your sleep that night, and sunglasses to reduce the discomfort bright sunlight may cause at this time. During this early postoperative period it is important not to squeeze or rub your eyes. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used to prevent infection and decrease inflammation. After leaving the center, many patients feel the need to rest a few hours. Later that day most patients feel very well and are extremely pleased with their results already. Many patients go back to work the next day, while others choose to return to work in a few days. You will need to go for a postoperative checkup following your procedure to ensure that your eyes are healing as expected. There are a few restrictions for a week or so following your procedure, but as long as you follow your doctor's instructions, you should be free to resume all of your normal activities thereafter.