What Happens During Laser Eye Surgery?

Understanding the Procedure

Laser eye surgery, commonly known as LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), is a popular refractive surgery designed to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to enable light entering the eye to focus correctly on the retina. This can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The Surgical Process

The surgery typically takes less than 30 minutes for both eyes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Before the procedure begins, the patient is given numbing eye drops to ensure comfort. Patients are then positioned under a laser device, where the surgeon uses a special tool to create a thin flap in the cornea. Once the flap is lifted, an excimer laser is utilized to precisely reshape the corneal tissue underneath.

During the laser treatment, patients may hear a clicking sound and experience some pressure, but there is usually no pain. The entire laser application takes only a few seconds. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned, and a protective shield may be placed over the eye for protection during the healing process.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, dryness, or blurred vision, but these symptoms typically resolve within a few days. It is essential to follow the surgeons aftercare instructions, including using prescribed eye drops to aid healing and prevent infection. Most patients notice a significant improvement in their vision within 24 hours, although full stabilization can take several weeks.

Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results. With proper care and adherence to post-operative guidelines, many individuals enjoy clear vision and an improved quality of life following laser eye surgery.