LASIK Basics
LASIK – or laser eye surgery – is the eye surgery of choice for most North Americans choosing vision correcting surgery. Some people mistakenly call it it “LASIX,” yet the proper name is LASIK, an acronym for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.” What contributes to the popularity of LASIK over other types of eye surgeries? LASIK features vision which is already great the next day, and a virtually pain-free recovery period.
How is LASIK performed?
During the LASIK procedure, a tool called a microkeratome or a laser is utilized to slice and lift back a thin, round flap from the cornea, which allows access into deeper structures of the eye. Then, an axcimer laser is used to ablate, or remove, some of the corneal cells underneath, reshaping its curvature so the eye can focus light precisely toward the back of the eyeball, which restores the patient’s sharp vision. At the end, the corneal flap is replaced.
LASIK is beneficial for correcting refractive errors like farsightedness and nearsightedness. To correct farsightedness, the cornea curvature is deepened and with nearsightedness it is flattened. Astigmatism, the other major contributor to refractive error, is corrected by smoothing out the irregularly shaped corneal surface.
The optometrist at our Lancaster, OH Eye Care Practice offers pre-operative analysis and post-operative care for LASIK and various other vision correction eye surgeries. LASIK has now become the most popular option for refractive eye surgery. We can help you navigate the choices and figure out which is best for you, and then refer you to a top quality eye surgeon. Plus, our Practice will be here for you during the recovery period after LASIK.
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