LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, works by using a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how LASIK works:
- Eye Examination:
- Before LASIK, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to assess the overall health of the eye, measure refractive errors, and determine the specific characteristics of the cornea.
- Creating a Flap:
- During the LASIK procedure, a microkeratome or femtosecond laser is used to create a thin, hinged flap on the cornea. This flap serves as a protective cover for the part of the cornea that will be reshaped.
- Corneal Reshaping:
- After the flap is created, an excimer laser is employed to precisely remove a small amount of corneal tissue. The laser is computer-controlled and sculpts the cornea based on the patient’s unique refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- Vision Correction:
- The laser reshapes the cornea by either flattening it (for nearsightedness), steepening it (for farsightedness), or smoothing irregularities (for astigmatism). This alteration corrects the way light enters the eye, improving the focus on the retina.
- Flap Repositioning:
- After the corneal reshaping is completed, the surgeon carefully repositions the flap onto the treated area. The flap adheres naturally without the need for stitches.
- Immediate Vision Improvement:
- The reshaped cornea allows light to be properly focused onto the retina, resulting in immediate vision improvement. Many patients experience significant visual clarity within the first 24 hours after the procedure.
- Post-Operative Care:
- Patients are given post-operative instructions, including the use of prescribed eye drops to aid healing and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments with the eye surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results.
LASIK effectively adjusts the shape of the cornea to address common refractive errors, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. It’s important to note that while LASIK is a widely performed and safe procedure, individual results may vary, and potential risks and benefits should be discussed with an eye care professional before undergoing the surgery.
Experience expert eye care with Dr. Seema Behl, your trusted Eye doctor in Andheri East. Schedule your appointment today for comprehensive eye examinations and personalized vision solutions.
How does LASIK work?