A thin layer....
Utilizing the accuracy and precision of the excimer laser, LASIK changes the shape of the cornea to improve the way light is focused or "refracted" by the eye.   First, a thin layer of the cornea, or corneal flap, is lifted up as an instrument called a microkeratome glides across the cornea.Then, in seconds, ultraviolet
A thin layer of cornea is gently folded back.
By adjusting the pattern of the laser beam through its computer, it is possible to treat high levels of nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness.

After the tissue has been reshaped, the flap is replaced in its original position.  Because of the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, healing is rapid and does not require stitches.  LASIK is performed as an outpatient procedure in the comfort and convenience of the excimer surgical suite.

The light from....
The light from the excimer laser re-shapes the internal tissue.
The cornea is.....
The entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes and both eyes are done the same day.  The procedure is performed using "eye drop" anesthesia.  Some patients report a slight, post-operative discomfort that can usually be alleviated with medications.  Patients see a dramatic improvement in their vision within the first day.  Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two.
The cornea is ready to be closed.
LASIK, when performed by our team, takes a few minutes to complete, and LASIK procedures are painless.  Patients are always amazed at the ease of both these procedures because of their speed and comfort.  Only topical anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye for the procedures.  An eyelid holder is inserted to prevent blinking while the drops eliminate the reflex to blink.

With LASIK, the epithelial layer is left intact, allowing for not only faster visual recovery but improved comfort and safety.

Step 1.  A suction ring is placed on the eye to secure the eye and maintain pressure within the eye while the corneal flap is created.

Step 2.  A microkeratome, an automated microsurgical instrument similar in design to a carpenter's plane, is used to create a thin corneal flap which remains hinged by the nose or beneath the upper eyelid.   The corneal flap is 160 to 180 microns thick, about 30% the corneal thickness which is typically about 550 microns.  The creation of corneal flaps has actually been performed for four decades providing us with a long history of safety and stability. Patients do not feel or see the cutting of the corneal flap, which takes only a few seconds.
light and high energy pulses from the excimer laser reshape the internal cornea with extreme accuracy.
Step by Step
Step 3. The corneal flap is then laid back and the inner stromal layers of the cornea lasered with the patient's prescription.

Step 4. The corneal flap is then closed and the flap and interface rinsed. Once the procedure is completed, Our team will wait 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the corneal flap has fully re-adhered. At this point, patients can blink normally and the corneal flap remains secured in position by the natural suction within the cornea. While it is possible to dislodge the corneal flap during the first day or two by physically rubbing the eye, this event is actually quite rare. After the first week, LASIK patients can resume their full exercise activities. Since the protective layer remains intact with LASIK, no bandage or contact lens is required and an examination is only required on the first post-operative day. LASIK patients are placed on an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drop for about 1 week.
LASIK patients are instructed to wear a protective eyeshield while sleeping for 1 week to prevent accidental trauma to the corneal flap during the early healing period. Patients are able to travel by air immediately and exercise after 1 week.
 
Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis - (LASIK)