History

LASIK was first performed in the early 1990's in Greece. However, the two main components of LASIK were performed separately many years prior. Doctors in South America began performing corneal flap surgery in the 1960's to correct myopia. Excimer laser correction on the corneal surface was first performed in 1987, and since then over 2 million procedures have been performed worldwide. LASIK combines the benefits of corneal flap surgery with the accuracy of the excimer laser.

How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK combines the proven techniques of both corneal flap and excimer laser surgery, resulting in dramatic results and rapid visual recovery. LASIK is effective for correcting most cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Every Nationwide Vision patient undergoes a comprehensive series of eye tests and examinations and has a consultation. During the consultation the patient and surgeon discuss and plan the procedure that best suits the individual patient. On the day of the surgery, the patient is brought to the laser suite and positioned upon a comfortable chair that reclines. Topical anesthetic drops are provided to "numb" the eye. The LASIK flap is created with a precise instrument called a microkeratome (pictured at left). The microkeratome makes a corneal flap that is approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the corneal thickness. The surgeon lifts the corneal flap and folds it over (still securely attached to the eye by its hinge). Next, the surgeon uses the excimer laser to reshape microscopic amounts of corneal stromal tissue to provide precise correction of the patient's refractive error. When the laser portion of the procedure is complete (usually less than one minute) the corneal flap is returned to its original position where it seals back into its proper position within minutes, and continues to heal with increasing strength over the next few weeks.

What Should I Expect After Surgery?

Visual recovery is usually very quick after LASIK. Most patients see clearly and are back at work within the first 24 to 48 hours. Since LASIK does not remove the surface layer of the cornea (called the epithelium) there is rapid healing with minimal discomfort. Temporary side effects following LASIK are generally minimal. Patients may experience temporary symptoms such as slightly drier eyes and minor increases in light scattering. These effects are more common in people with very large pupils and high refractive corrections. These side effects generally diminish as the eye heals with time. Other rare, but possible complications are discussed with all of our patients during their refractive assessment appointment.