What is
LASIK?

LASIK is a type of refractive surgery that is used to treat myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism by reshaping the patient's cornea.

Basically, a hinged flap of tissue is cut off the surface of the cornea with a knife. Small blood vessels in the eye may burst at this stage, which is a harmless side-effect that clears within weeks.

Next, the flap is folded back to reveal the stroma and an Excimer laser is used to vapourize the tissues - there is no actual cutting or burning with heat.

The flap is then replaced, which immediately sticks to the eyeball, and checked for air bubbles and fine debris. A perforated metal or plastic sheet is then placed over the eye to protect the flap.

A typical LASIK procedure lasts 10-15 minutes per eye and requires only anaesthetic eye drops. It is conducted as a day surgery and the patient is able to resume normal activities immediately.

The surgery is practically painless, apart from a stinging sensation when the anaesthetic wears off. A functional vision is instantaneous, with gradual improvements over the next few days - vision stabilizes in 1 to 3 months.

Patients may be given a course of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops, and a pair of darkened shields to protect from bright lights and dry eyes.

There should be 3 to 4 follow-up consultations with the surgeon post-op, and enhancements may be necessary in the event of undercorrection or overcorrection.

 

Next: Potential LASIK Risks