LASIK is a procedure that changes the shape of the cornea using a laser beam. This reshaping allows light to focus more precisely on the retina. It can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure doesn’t replace the lens but alters the front part of the eye. Patients with stable prescriptions are typically better candidates. Most people who undergo LASIK have worn glasses or contacts for years. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the need for visual aids.
Preoperative measurements determine your eye’s specific map
Before surgery, the eye is measured in detail. The curvature, thickness, and shape of the cornea are mapped. These values guide the laser’s movement during treatment. No two eyes are exactly the same, even in the same person. The surgeon checks for dry eye, corneal irregularities, or signs of other diseases. Tear production is evaluated as it affects healing. This phase ensures the eye is suitable for the procedure. Patients with thin corneas may be advised against LASIK.
Your eyes will be numbed, and you’ll remain awake during the procedure
LASIK is done under local anesthesia using numbing drops. Patients stay awake throughout the procedure. There’s no general anesthesia or sedation. A lid speculum keeps the eye open. Movement is restricted but blinking is prevented. Most people feel only pressure or vibration. Discomfort is minimal and temporary. The eye doesn’t register pain during treatment. Instructions are given aloud during the process. You’ll be asked to look at a fixed light.
A flap is created on the surface of the cornea using a precise instrument
The first step involves creating a thin flap on the cornea. This flap is made using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. It’s folded back gently to reveal the inner corneal tissue. This layer is what the excimer laser will reshape. The flap remains attached on one side, like a hinged door. It’s not removed completely. This allows for faster healing and less disruption to the eye’s structure. The flap is repositioned after treatment.
The excimer laser removes microscopic tissue based on your eye’s unique pattern
The laser removes tissue in precise patterns. It doesn’t generate heat or damage surrounding cells. The amount removed depends on your refractive error. Myopia requires flattening the cornea. Hyperopia needs steepening. Astigmatism correction involves smoothing uneven curvature. The laser follows a pre-programmed path customized to your eye. Each pulse lasts fractions of a second. The total laser time is often under a minute per eye. Vision correction occurs during this step.
You may notice immediate changes in your vision as the flap is replaced
Once the flap is placed back, it begins to seal naturally. No stitches are used. Vision may already appear sharper. Most people notice improvement within minutes. The flap acts as a natural bandage. It protects the treated surface while healing begins. Blinking feels normal shortly after the procedure. Lubricating drops are applied immediately. You’ll be asked not to rub your eyes. This prevents flap movement in the early phase.
Mild burning, tearing, or light sensitivity may follow for a few hours
It’s normal to experience discomfort during the first few hours. Eyes may water or sting slightly. A burning sensation is also common. Light sensitivity increases temporarily. Sunglasses help reduce irritation. Most symptoms resolve within six hours. The first night is important for rest. Protective shields are often used during sleep. These prevent accidental rubbing. Avoid screen time or reading during this period. Vision continues to stabilize over the following days.
Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and visual progress
You’ll return to the clinic within 24 to 48 hours. The surgeon checks flap position and clarity. Vision is tested and compared to pre-op measurements. Follow-up visits may continue for weeks or months. Lubricating drops are often prescribed to prevent dryness. Eye pressure is sometimes monitored. Any signs of infection or flap issues are addressed early. Attending these visits is critical. They help ensure smooth recovery.
Night vision problems and dry eye are common but usually temporary
Some people report glare or halos at night. These effects tend to fade with time. Dry eye symptoms are also frequent. They can last for several weeks or months. Artificial tears offer relief. Rarely, symptoms persist longer. Patients with pre-existing dryness may notice more discomfort. Avoiding dry environments helps. With time, tear production returns to normal. Most side effects are minor and manageable.
Results are typically long-lasting but may change with age
LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea. But it doesn’t stop the eye from aging. Presbyopia still develops in the 40s or 50s. This affects near vision regardless of LASIK success. Some patients may need reading glasses later. In rare cases, enhancements are performed years after surgery. These adjust for regression or shifting vision. The initial correction usually holds for decades. Stable vision before surgery reduces the need for future procedures.
Not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK
LASIK isn’t recommended for every patient. Unstable prescriptions, thin corneas, or autoimmune conditions may disqualify someone. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are also advised to wait. Severe dry eye may worsen after surgery. Corneal diseases like keratoconus are contraindications. Age matters as well. Younger patients may still experience prescription changes. Proper screening ensures safe outcomes. Other procedures like PRK may be better suited for some.
Alternative procedures exist for those not eligible for LASIK
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is another laser-based option. It doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap. Surface cells are removed and the laser reshapes the cornea directly. Recovery takes longer than LASIK. But it’s safer for thin corneas. SMILE is a newer method involving a small incision and tissue removal. It’s useful for myopia with fewer dry eye symptoms. Lens-based surgeries are also available for higher prescriptions. LASIK isn’t the only solution for vision correction.
LASIK doesn’t eliminate the need for future eye checkups
Post-surgery vision may be excellent. But routine exams remain essential. Eye pressure, retinal health, and lens changes still matter. LASIK doesn’t protect against glaucoma or cataracts. Some changes happen silently. Regular screening detects problems early. Glasses may still be needed for certain tasks. Especially with age, eye health can shift. LASIK treats refractive error, not overall eye disease. Continued care is part of long-term success.