LASIK eye surgery is a popular and effective procedure designed to correct vision issues, such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Understanding what happens during LASIK can ease concerns and help patients prepare for the experience. Below is a detailed step-by-step overview of the LASIK eye surgery process.

Step 1: Pre-operative Evaluation

Before undergoing LASIK eye surgery, patients must first undergo a comprehensive eye examination. This evaluation includes measuring the curvature of the cornea, the thickness of the cornea, and assessing overall eye health. The surgeon will also discuss the patient’s medical history and determine if LASIK is a suitable option.

Step 2: Preparing for Surgery

On the day of the surgery, patients are advised to arrive at the surgical center early. They should refrain from wearing makeup, lotions, or perfumes to prevent any contamination. The surgical team will explain the procedure and answer any last-minute questions.

Step 3: Administering Anesthesia

To ensure comfort during the procedure, topical anesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eyes. In some cases, an oral sedative may also be given to help patients relax.

Step 4: Creating the Corneal Flap

Using a specialized instrument called a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea. This flap is carefully lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.

Step 5: Reshaping the Cornea

With the flap lifted, the laser is used to reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors. The Excimer laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina. This step usually takes only a few seconds for each eye, and patients may hear a clicking sound as the laser is activated.

Step 6: Repositioning the Corneal Flap

Once the cornea has been reshaped, the surgeon carefully repositions the corneal flap. The flap adheres naturally without the need for stitches, allowing for a quicker recovery.

Step 7: Post-operative Care

After the procedure, patients are given protective eyewear and specific post-operative instructions. It’s common to experience some discomfort or a sandy sensation in the eyes, but this typically resolves quickly. Patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days following surgery.

Step 8: Follow-Up Visits

Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring healing and ensuring that vision is improving as expected. These visits usually occur within the first 1 to 3 days after surgery and continue at regular intervals over the next several weeks.

Conclusion

LASIK eye surgery is a straightforward and efficient procedure that can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with vision problems. By understanding each step of the process, patients can feel more confident and prepared for their journey to clearer vision.