Basic Information on Laser Eye Surgery

Laser technology is used for several surgical procedures on the eye (such as cataract removal). But information on laser eye surgery is mainly pervasive today because of laser technology’s role in reducing dependence on corrective lenses.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most common type of corrective laser eye surgery. In America, around 99% of all laser vision correction procedures use some type of LASIK surgery.

In this type of laser eye surgery, the laser is used to reshape the top 10% of the eye orbit’s layer. This reshaping will correct the focus of the retina on images.

Although the technology is precise and safe for treating nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, LASIK may not always create 20/20, nor will vision be exactly the same as when using corrective lenses. Also, not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK surgery.

What Happens During LASIK Surgery?

First, anesthetic drops are put in the eye that will be operated on and the patient is brought into the laser room. After the eye is prepped and the area around it sterilized, a small device is inserted to keep the eyelid open.

Then, a microkeratome (a blade with a suction designed for the specific purpose) is used to create a flap, which is then drawn back.

Next, the laser device is aligned to the eye and the patient is asked to focus on the blinking light. The patient will then hear a clicking sound as the laser begins to work. This takes place from 30 seconds to one minute.

The flap is put back and it will adhere to the cornea. The eye will be examined with a slit-lamp.

Finally, drops will be placed on the eye, a clear plastic shield will be used to cover it, and the patient will be asked to try to keep the eye closed for 12 hours.

Does It Hurt?

There is generally no pain involved in laser eye surgery using LASIK. That’s what makes it so popular. Other types of surgery, such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), involve some pain and discomfort (although it does not involve cutting a flap).

What’s more, vision will usually start to improve within hours of surgery.

Are There Side Effects?

Reputable LASIK clinics will give patients enough information on laser eye surgery—its benefits as well as its shortcomings. And they will not try to hide additional treatments (and costs) that may be needed.

For example, if the procedure results in over- or under-correction, more procedures may be needed to improve results. Patients have also been known to complain of blurred vision, sensitive eyes, or poor night vision. Any of these may require more consultations and procedures.

It would, therefore, be a good idea to ask if any additional procedures are included in the amount the clinic charges for LASIK. Many reputable clinics will NOT charge for additional procedures done within the first year of surgery.