What is Lasik?

To understand what Lasik is it is important to know what the word stands for. The word LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. Lasik is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea using the excimer laser. While that is a simple explanation of Lasik, it is much more complicated.

To have a better understanding of Lasik, it is impoprtant to understand the different types of refractive errors. These are: myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Myopia pertains to nearsightedness. Hyperopia refers to farsightedness and astigmatism pertains to a distortion of the image on the retina caused by irregularities in the cornea or lens of the eye.

Lasik surgery enables the patient to undergo precise and controlled removal of corneal tissue by a special laser, which reshapes the cornea. There are other types of refractive surgery which are different from Lasik. There is Radial Keratotomy or RK and Photorefractive Keratectomy or PRK. The same type of laser is used for Lasik and PRK.

In PRK, the top layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is scraped away to expose the stromal layer underneath. With Lasik, the laser is used to cut a flap in the stromal layer and the flap is folded back while the cornea is reshaped. The flap is then replaced.

The use of lasers similar to that of PRK to treat refractive errors define largely what is Lasik in layman’s terms. Over the last years, doctors have used Lasik the main surgery for treating myopia.

Before undergoing Lasik surgery make sure that you do your part to prepare aptly for the procedure to prevent possible negative consequences. The Lasik procedure takes only thirty minutes to complete. If you cannot focus your eyes for 60 seconds then you may not qualify for a Lasik procedure. Make sure that you’ve made proper inquiries pertaining to the treatment before undergoing the procedure.

If you are not a risk taker, your job prohibits refractive procedures or cost is an issue, then Lasik treatment may not be the procedure for you. Do not sign any waiver before you are made aware of the risks and benefits involve with Lasik surgery. What you do before and during surgery are as important as what you do after it. Make sure that you follow your doctor’s orders to ensure your safety.

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