What is LASIK Laser Vision Correction?

Laser vision correction is a surgical procedure used to correct the focus of the eye. An excimer laser is used to reshape the front part of the eye, known as the cornea, in order to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and/or astigmatism. The excimer laser is essentially a light beam that is precise enough to sculpt into the side of a human hair.

There are two ways in which the laser energy can be applied: underneath a flap of corneal tissue (LASIK) or directly to the surface of the cornea (PRK). The corneal flap of the LASIK procedure is created using an automated instrument known as a microkeratome. After the laser treatment is administered, the flap is replaced onto the surface of the eye, where it adheres without sutures. The eye will immediatly start sealing the flap down. Recovery time is faster in LASIK, as the flap acts as a natural “bandage”. In PRK, a contact lens is used for 2 to 3 days to provide comfort while the surface of the cornea heals. While the healing time is longer with PRK, the final results are the same with both procedures. Each procedure has its own advantages and risks. Most patients will be candidates for LASIK.

What is the Goal of LVC?
The goal of LVC is to reduce, and in some cases, eliminate your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Most patients can expect vision at or better than 20/40 with one treatment. Certain patients will require additional treatments to attain the best vision. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision, or better.

LVC cannot correct presbyopia, which is the loss of close-up focusing power that occurs naturally with age. Therefore, patients around the age of 40 and up will continue to depend on reading glasses for near vision activities.

LVC will not correct other causes of decreased vision, such as cataracts, “lazy eye” or strabismus.