A LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) operation is a popular laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. The procedure involves creating a thin flap on the cornea, using an excimer laser to reshape the underlying tissue, and then repositioning the flap, offering quick recovery and clear vision for many.

Why it is done?

LASIK surgery may be an option for the correction of these vision problems :

• Nearsightedness, also called myopia. In nearsightedness, your eyeball is slightly longer than typical or the cornea curves too sharply. This causes light rays to focus in front of the retina, which makes distant vision blurry. Objects that are close can be seen fairly clearly. But objects in the distance will be blurry.

• Farsightedness, also called hyperopia. In farsightedness, you have a shorter than average eyeball or a cornea that is too flat. This causes light to focus behind the retina instead of on it. This makes near vision, and sometimes distant vision, blurry.

• Astigmatism. In astigmatism, the cornea curves or flattens unevenly. This affects focus of near and distant vision.

How it Works?

1. Flap Creation :

A surgeon uses a microkeratome or femtosecond laser to create a thin, hinged flap on the cornea.

2. Tissue Reshaping :

The flap is lifted, and a cool excimer laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to change its curvature.

3. Flap Repositioning :

The flap is then placed back over the reshaped cornea, where it adheres without stitches.

Who is the ideal Candidate?

• At least 18 years old.

• Stable vision (refraction hasn't changed for a year).

• Free from certain eye diseases or conditions.

What to Expect During Surgery?

• Numbing : Eye drops numb the eye; you might feel pressure, but it's generally painless.

• Focus Point : You'll stare at a light to keep your eye still as the laser reshapes the cornea.

• Duration : The procedure itself is quick, often under 30 minutes for both eyes.

Recovery & Results :

• Immediate :

Mild discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision are common initially.

• Short-Term :

Significant vision improvement within days, with most restrictions lifted in a week.

• Long-Term :

Full stabilization usually occurs within 3-6 months, with long- lasting vision correction.