LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a surgical treatment used to address vision disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK is a common procedure for those who desire to lessen or remove their reliance on glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK surgery works by reshaping the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye that helps focus light entering the eye. A small flap is made in the outer layer of the cornea during the surgery, and then a laser is used to remove some of the corneal tissue underneath. After that, the flap is relocated, and the cornea recovers naturally, resulting in improved eyesight.

The first step in getting LASIK is to undergo a comprehensive eye examination with an eye doctor or ophthalmologist. This exam will determine whether LASIK is a suitable option for the individual and will also help the doctor determine the precise amount of corneal tissue that needs to be removed during the surgery.

Prior to the surgery, the patient must refrain from wearing contact lenses for a set period of time to allow the cornea to return to its natural shape. The individual will be given numbing eye drops on the day of the surgery, and the surgeon will use a laser to produce a thin flap on the cornea. The individual may experience some pressure or discomfort during this part of the procedure, but it should not be painful. The surgeon will then use a different laser to remove a precise amount of corneal tissue based on the individual’s unique prescription. The surgery typically takes around 15 minutes per eye.

Following surgery, the patient will be required to rest for a short period of time before being discharged. It is important to have someone else drive the individual home after the procedure. Individuals will need to use eye drops to prevent infection and encourage recovery, and they will need to avoid some activities for a few weeks after the surgery, including as swimming and contact sports. Most people see an improvement in their vision within a day or two of surgery, although it may take several weeks for the vision to stabilize completely.

LASIK is usually regarded as safe and successful, although it does, like any surgical surgery, involve some risks. The most common side effect of LASIK is dry eye, which can cause discomfort and blurry vision. Other potential side effects include glare, halos, and double vision, but these are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few days or weeks. In rare cases, complications such as infection, corneal scarring, or vision loss can occur, but these are extremely uncommon.

LASIK is not suitable for everyone, and individuals with certain eye conditions or medical conditions may not be candidates for the procedure. For example, individuals with thin corneas or irregular corneal shapes may not be able to undergo LASIK. Individuals with autoimmune disorders or other medical conditions that affect healing may also be excluded from the procedure.