What is LASIK?

(L)aser (A)ssisted (S)tromal (I)n-Situ (K)eratomileusis

LASIK is an outpatient corneal procedure in which a surgeon uses a specialized and precise flap-making instrument, called a microkeratome, to create a thin flap of corneal tissue (2 & 3).  This flap is raised and laid back while still attached to the cornea (4).  The surgeon then uses an excimer laser to remove a pre-determined amount of corneal tissue from the exposed bed of the corneal (5).  The amount of tissue to be removed is calculated based on the pre-operative determination of the power of your eye.  These measurements are usually in agreement with recent prescriptions for your glasses and/or contact lenses.  The flap is replaced and within minutes natural forces hold the flap down on the cornea (7).  Usually within a few hours, the surface epithelium of the cornea begins to grow over the cut edge of the flap to seal it into position (8).

Some significant advantages of LASIK are:

• Very rapid healing of the thin, surface, epithelial "flap" incision, often within 4 to 8 hours, resulting in little to no post-operative pain.

• No interference with the Bowman's Membrane.

• No prolonged attempt by the corneal epithelium to regain its original curvature and, therefore, a relatively rapid stable vision.

• Rarely a need for long-term steroid (cortisone type) drops, and, therefore, almost never any steroid induced glaucoma or cataract.

• No or at least extremely rare instances of haze.

What to expect on the day of your procedure

The following is a general idea as to what you should expect on your procedure day.

 UPON ARRIVAL

• Please be sure to bring your already signed/initialed Informed Consent booklet.
• When you arrive, please enter the elevator on the ground floor and press “2R”.  This will bring you to the VisionaryUSA.com Surgery Institute floor, and please turn to the right as you exit the elevator.  Then, enter through the LASER CENTER door and sign in.  Have a seat in the waiting area and we will be right with you.
• The procedure process will not take long, so it is recommended that the person accompanying you stay with you during your visit if possible.
• You will be given Valium to help you relax.  (If you are allergic to Valium or similar medications, please notify us before your surgery day so an alternative may be arranged.)
• Some further testing may be performed on your eyes, particularly a test called WaveScan®.  WaveScan® is a highly technical test that measures your eyes 25-times more precisely than standard methods used for eyeglass and contact lenses.  The information collected is then transferred to the laser, providing a new level of precision and accuracy. 

 THE PROCEDURE

• The procedure takes approximately five (5) minutes per eye.
• The laser staff team will prepare you for the procedure by explaining how to focus on the laser and what sensations you may expect during the procedure.
• Eye drops will be used to numb your eye, and your eye area will be cleaned.
• Your laser staff team will communicate with you about each step, talking you through the procedure.  In this regard, there are no surprises and you will feel more comfortable.
• There is no pain at all.  The only thing you feel is your surgeon’s gentle touch and mild pressure.
• Tape may be used to place your eyelashes off to the side.
• A small speculum keeps your eyes from blinking.
• The laser makes a loud clicking noise.
• You can sometimes smell the evaporation of tissue.
• You may feel the sensation of cool water on your eye.
• You don’t have to worry about blinking or moving your eyes.  The laser has a sophisticated tracking system that follows your eyes.  Should you move even more than a millimeter, the laser shuts itself off automatically.
• After the surgeon has completed your surgery, a protective clear eye shield will be placed over your eyes.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

• You will be assisted to the recovery room where you will relax in a comfortable recliner in a dim room while you adjust to your new vision.   
• After approximately thirty (30) minutes, the surgeon will check the health of your eyes.
• You will be given an eye kit and instructed on how to use the items given to you.
• You will be scheduled to return the following day for a one-day follow-up appointment. 
• You will then be released wearing your protective eye shield or sunglasses. (See post-operative instructions.)