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.”
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.
