How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK Eye Surgery in Southern NH If so, you’ll need to speak to your ophthalmologist about whether or not you might be a candidate. Below you’ll find an overview of how the procedure works.

Laser Precision

LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, which refers to eye surgery that uses lasers to correct the shape of the eye’s cornea in order to produce better vision. Because lasers are used, incredible precision is possible; such precision would be difficult or impossible with traditional surgical techniques.

Corneal Reshaping

Before the laser surgery can begin, your eye doctor must first make a flap in the eye to expose the stroma portion of the cornea. This may either be done with a small, disposable blade called a microkeratome, or with a special laser called a femtosecond laser. A very thin layer of the external cornea is cut in such a manner that it can be folded away rather than completely removed. Once access is obtained, the specialized LASIK laser, called an excimer laser, begins delivering cool UV light beams to remove tiny portions of tissue and reshape the cornea. This process continues until the ideal shape is obtained. When the process is completed, your eye doctor will gently push the corneal flap back into place, where it will heal itself naturally.

Recovery and Results

Recovering from LASIK eye surgery typically involves little more than rest and refraining from straining. There may be some blurry vision for a few days as your vision stabilizes, but many people are able to return to work as soon as the day after surgery. Of course, you’ll want to follow your eye doctor’s specific instructions and recommendations regarding your activity and eye care.