LASIK eye surgery: What is it?

LASIK (acronym for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a refractive eye surgery that is performed to correct eyesight defects such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. LASIK was introduced in the 1990s and now thousands of patients all over the world choose it as a way to improve their vision and thus life quality.

LASIK eye surgery takes about 15 minutes and lets the patient forget about glasses or contact lenses forever. It is a painless procedure which is performed under local anesthetic. After LASIK is done there is no need for the patient to stay at the hospital, he or she can go home.

Using a special instrument called a microkeratome, eye surgeon cuts a thin flap of the cornea. Cornea is a clear layer covering the eye surface. Then created flap is folded back and the excimer laser is used to remove some of the cornea tissue. After this the flap is placed into its original position. It is done to improve the way the eye focuses light rays onto the retina located at the back of the eye.

To get LASIK eye surgery done the patient should be at least 18 years old and be in a good health. Many eye doctors prefer patients to be over 21 because below this age the refractive error is more likely to be changing. Stability of the refractive error is one of the requirements for LASIK surgery. LASIK has absolute and relative contraindications such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or any auto immune disease and risk factors, for example, “dry eye” syndrome that should be carefully considered. About 40% of the patients will be suitable for laser eye surgery.

LASIK is a great option for many people to improve their vision and get rid of eye glasses or contacts but it is still a surgery and has its risks. LASIK complication rate is low and equals to 0,2-2 %. LASIK side effects may include “dry eye” syndrome, difficulties with driving at night due to halo and glare effects, light sensitivity, keratoconus, etc. Some of these disappear with time, other need additional treatment, sometimes the second eye surgery is needed. There is also a small chance that vision will not be as good after LASIK as it was before. Anyone who is considering LASIK as an option should ask the eye doctor about LASIK indications, contraindications, side effects and risks.