What is LASIK ?
LASIK is simply an acronym for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis. It is performed in our outpatient laser suite using only eyedrops for anesthesia. The actual laser portion of the procedure normally takes less than 60 seconds per eye, with most patients spending less than 20 minutes total time in the last suite. LASIK is performed by treating an inner layer of the cornea with a VISX Star S3 Excimer Laser, the most proven Excimer Laser available today. A specially designed instrument called a microkeratome is used to make a protective flap on the surface of the cornea. This flap is then lifted allowing the laser treatment to take on the inner layer of the cornea. After the brief laser period, the protective flap is returned to its normal position and the eye heals naturally without the need for stitches. By treating the inner layer of the cornea, patients enjoy a more rapid visual recovery and the procedure is virtually painless.

How is the LASIK procedure performed?
LASIK is performed by treating an inner layer of the cornea with a VISX Star S3 Excimer Laser, the most proven Excimer Laser available today. A specially designed instrument called a microkeratome is used to make a protective flap on the surface of the cornea. This flap is then lifted allowing the laser treatment to take on the inner layer of the cornea. After the brief laser period, the protective flap is returned to its normal position and the eye heals naturally without the need for stitches. By treating the inner layer of the cornea, patients enjoy a more rapid visual recovery and the procedure is virtually painless.

What can I expect during the LASIK procedure?
Prior to the procedure, the physician will administer anesthetic eye drops to numb the eye. After the eye drops have had a chance to take effect, you are led to a treatment room and positioned in a comfortable chair underneath the laser system. Once you are centered you are asked to focus on a small, bright light visible from the bottom of the microscope. This allows the eye to be suitably aligned, and the actual treatment can then begin. You will remain awake and pain-free during the treatment. Afterwards, ointment and/or drops are placed in the eye to facilitate the healing process.

What can I expect after the procedure?
During the 24-48 hours after the treatment, most patients will experience a sensation in the eye and/or some discomfort. Typically, the patient will notice improved vision in 3-5 days or sooner following the treatment. Treatment follow-up generally involves several visits to the doctor. Vision may fluctuate over the next few weeks, and usually stabilizes within three months. Possible side effects may include halos around lights, "ghost" images, visual fluctuations during healing, or minor discomfort during healing. Although these side effects may appear, they are less frequent and less intense than in other procedures.

What is an appropriate outcome?
For low and moderate myopia (up to about 10 diopters): 95% of eyes typically achieve 20/40 or better vision · 85% of eyes achieve 20/25 or better vision. · 1% of eyes cannot see as well with glasses after surgery as they could with glasses before surgery.
For high myopia (over 7 diopters): 90% of eyes typically achieve 20/40 or better vision · 70% of eyes typically achieve 20/25 or better vision. · 5% of eyes cannot see as well with glasses after surgery as they could with glasses before surgery.

Email all LASIK questions to: Joy Woodford