LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a commonly used surgical procedure which reduces one's dependency on glasses or contact lenses. The purpose of the procedure is to permanently change the shape of one's cornea.

The cornea is what covers the front of one's eyes. During this procedure a flap is cut in the cornea with a knife called a microkeratome. One end of the flap remains attached. The flap is then folded back uncovering the stroma, the midsection of one's cornea. A laser is then used to remove a portion of the stroma. The flap is then replaced.

This procedure should be performed by a skilled surgeon as an incision is made in the cornea. The FDA states that doctors who perform the surgery are not regulated and may perform the surgery if it is deemed to be in the patient's best interest.

The patient is allowed to drive immediately following surgery and have good vision within a week after surgery. People do need to know that this is not the perfect procedure for everyone. Some people end up with worse eyesight following LASIK.

Prior to committing to a LASIK procedure, one must receive a thorough eye examination. There are some conditions that put patients at risk for LASIK such as glaucoma and diabetes. In addition, those who heal slowly, have uncontrolled vascular disease, autoimmune diseases and other eye diseases involving the cornea or retina should not consider LASIK surgery.

Currently there are a number of studies supported by the FDA that use other lasers. This study is known as Investigational Device Exemptions (IDEs) and are currently allowed in clinical trials to show the effectiveness of the excimer laser to treat farsightedness and also check the safety of a new device or a procedure using a currently approved device.