PCLI: LASIK - How Lasik Works

What does LASIK mean?It is an acronym for laser in situ keratomileusis, which means to reshape the cornea without disturbing the adjoining tissue. Translation of these Greek words: in situ means “in the natural or normal place,” kerato means “cornea,” and mileusis means “to shape.” Eye Diagram

Our surgeons use a tiny high-precision instrument called a microkeratome to separate the layers of corneal tissue and create a thin flap on the surface of the eye. This flap is folded back and the excimer laser is guided to gently reshape the underlying tissue. The corneal flap is replaced leaving the eye almost untouched. The cornea’s new shape is what improves vision. The quality of the corneal flap is crucial to minimizing complications and achieving excellent results. Many surgeons recognize that creating an exceptional high quality flap is 80% of the procedure’s success.

Your surgeon’s skill is critical—especially in the event that something unexpected occurs. The surgeon’s ability to react correctly can forever effect your visual outcome.

To determine if you are suited for treatment, schedule a LASIK surgery evaluation with your optometric physician. This careful exam will determine whether you are a good candidate. In general you qualify for LASIK if:

You are 18 years or older and are not functioning well with corrective lenses.
Your vision problems involve nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
Your vision has been stable over the last 12 months—2 years if you require a high degree of correction.
You understand that the best possible surgery results will not likely improve the vision you obtain with your best prescription for corrective lenses.
You understand that LASIK has limitations and your expectations are realistic.

To learn more about how your personality can impact your expectations, go to Do You Qualify.

LASIK has the potential to greatly reduce dependency on corrective lenses and in some cases glasses may not be required—but treatment is not a cure all. If you expect perfectly corrected vision as a result of treatment, you may be disappointed. It is also important that you are aware of the risks and side effects and that your motivation for LASIK is strong enough for you to accept them.