What is LASIK Surgery?

A basic grasp of how the eye works will assist in understanding the LASIK process. Much like a camera, the shape of the eye, and power of the lens determines how well the eye will bend light, and produce a sharp, clear image.

The cornea (lens) of the eye bends light and directs it to a single point on the retina. If that lens is perfectly shaped, a sharp image is received by the retina and transmitted to the brain. However, if the lens is slightly flat, or the eye itself is not perfectly round the light will be focused slightly in front or slightly behind the retina depending on the shape of the cornea.

In the case of nearsightedness, (myopia), where objects far away appear blurry, the eye is focusing light in front of the retina, rather than directly on it.

To perform the surgery correcting nearsighted patients, a doctor using a specialized machine, will cut a thin slice of the cornea creating a flap. Next using a laser that emits a cool ultraviolet light beam, tiny bits of tissue are removed, reshaping the cornea. The flap is then returned to its original position.¹

LASIK is also used to correct farsighted patients (hyperopia), where objects near appear blurry, in this case light is being directed slightly behind the retina. The laser is used to reshape the curve of the cornea by removal of tiny pieces of tissue on the sides of the cornea, creating a higher curve in the center.²

Presbyopia, which occurs normally around age 40, is the inability to see objects at near distance. This condition is thought to occur due to a hardening of the lens, and loss of flexibility in the eye muscles. Presbyopia is considered correctable by Lasik; however the results will be temporary.³

Does it work?

In a study consisting of 360 patients, six months after treatment, 92% reported 20/20 vision and 99.4% reported 20/40 or better.⁴

Is LASIK Right for Me?

The costs run approximately 2-3 thousand dollars. Many insurance companies do not pay for Lasik. You should check with your provider prior to scheduling surgery.

Possible side effects to LASIK surgery may include; visual irregularities, dry eye, glare or halo effects.

LASIK surgery involves cutting a flap on the cornea; potential side effects may include flap related problems such as infection or inflammation.

Some patients permanently lose parts of their vision that cannot be corrected with contact lenses, glasses or surgery as a result of treatment.⁵

Let your Doctor know if you…

Have autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Have fluctuating hormones because of a disease such as diabetes

Are taking Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Are taking Amiodarone hydrochloride (Cordarone)

This list is not complete. You should discuss all existing medical conditions, any drugs, herbal remedies, or vitamins you are currently taking with your physician prior to surgery.

Learn everything you can about LASIK before scheduling surgery.

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¹ According to A Guide to Laser Vision Correction,
“LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ kerato mileusis. The component words of LASIK are defined as:

• LASer-assisted-performed with the excimer laser.
• In situ-the laser sculpting is performed on the cornea after a flap of corneal tissue has been lifted.
• Keratomileusis-a process of carving the cornea to reshape it.” http://www.lasikpatientguide.org/lasik.htm

² http://eyewiki.aao.org/Refractive_Surgery_for_Hyperopia
³ http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/presbyopia.htm
⁴ http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf6/P060004d.pdf
⁵ http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/SurgeryandLifeSupport/LASIK/ucm061354.htm