LASIK Procedure: How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is an eye surgery that addresses the refractive error in the eye. Refractive error is associated with the irregularity in the vision quality of the eye. In normal conditions, the cornea refracts light so as to focus the images and make them appear sharp and clear on the retina. The working of the cornea is similar to a camera lens where the lens refracts light on the film at the back of the camera to create sharp images. However when the normal functioning of the cornea is disrupted, problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism emerge causing blurred vision. This is when the patient has to undergo LASIK surgery.

LASIK Process

The LASIK operation may be done on both eyes during one session, or may be done in two sessions. The process is commenced by the doctor placing anesthetic drops in your eyes, that makes the surface numb. The eyelids will be held wide open using an instrument called a lid speculum, so that they do not cause any interference during the procedure. Then, a thin film of corneal tissue is cut off the outer layer of the eyeball with a special knife (a mechanical or laser microkeratome), but a small portion is left attached so that it forms a flap. The flap is then lifted out-of-the-way, following which a special laser reshapes the deeper underlying corneal tissue. The laser is guided by a computer program which contains the patients individualized, corrective data. This program dictates how much tissue is to be removed. The corneal flap is then replaced and secured by the doctor, without stitches. The doctor will then place an eye shield or patch over the eye or eyes to protect the eye and prevent rubbing during the healing process. LASIK is an outpatient surgical procedure and usually takes 10 to 15 minutes per eye.

Soon after the surgery, most people experience burning and itching in the eye, or a feeling that something is in one's eye. At this time it is critical not to scratch or rub the eye, or the flap may get dislodged or displaced. Your doctor may prescribe a mild pain reliever to alleviate this discomfort.

Many patients experience blurry or hazy vision for a short while during the recovery period. Certain other problems such as sensitivity to light or seeing halos around lights may also occur. However, if there is severe pain or any of the symptoms worsen, one must immediately contact their doctor. During the first appointment after surgery, the eye shield will be removed, and your vision will be examined by your doctor. He may also prescribe eye drops to prevent infection. Fluctuation of vision for a few months after surgery is normal, and it may take up to 6 months for a person's vision to stabilize completely.

Post operative care is very important. The eyes must be protected, and lotions, cremes, and eye make-up should be avoided for between 2 - 4 weeks after surgery. Contact sports such as boxing, football, karate, etc., should be avoided for four weeks at the least after surgery. Driving, especially night driving, must not be attempted until one's vision has stabilized. Also keep away from swimming pools, hot tubs and whirlpools, which are sources of infection. Most importantly, follow all your doctor's instructions.