Laser Center Procedures

LASIK

Experience the Difference

Imagine how your daily routine would change if you did not need glasses or contacts! Wouldn't it be nice to wake up and see the alarm clock without fumbling for glasses? You could enjoy the freedom to live a more active life of swimming, skiing or camping without the burden of contact lenses. You would be free from the worry of losing glasses or contacts in an emergency. Good vision without glasses may qualify you for a new job. Think of the possibilities! LASIK can help fulfill many dreams.

About Lasik

LASIK, or Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, involves reshaping the cornea of the eye. To correct nearsightedness the curvature is flattened; to correct farsightedness, the curvature is increased. Techniques that reduce astigmatism reshape the cornea producing a more evenly curved surface.

About Your Procedure

Your eyes are numbed using "eye drop" anesthesia, an eyelid holder will be placed between your eyelids to prevent you from blinking.

Next, an instrument known as a microkeratome makes a protective flap of the cornea, which is gently folded back. During this process you may feel a little pressure and the microscope light will momentarily fade away. Then, you will be asked to look at a focusing light. At this point the laser tracks your eye movement while the small spot laser beam precisely reshapes the cornea in a matter of seconds.

Next, the protective flap is folded back into place where it bonds securely without stitches. After Lasik, some patients report a slight discomfort that usually goes away after 12 to 24 hours.

Several things could affect every LASIK procedure - perhaps your procedure:

• Your vision and the amount of correction you can realistically expect.
• The experience and expertise of the physician.
• The type of laser used by the surgeon.