What is LASIK?
LASIK,
short for laser in situ keratomileusis,
is a refractive
eye surgery that corrects nearsightedness
(myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia),
and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea.
This is done using a laser. Only eye
doctors specializing in refractive
surgery are qualified to perform LASIK.
What
distinguishes LASIK
from other refractive surgery procedures
is the creation of a flap on the cornea.
To do this, the surgeon uses a special
scalpel-like instrument called a microkeratome.
After creating this flap, the surgeon
carefully peels it back and uses the
laser to reshape the corneal tissue
beneath (the stroma). The entire procedure
can usually be performed in a half
hour or less. The result is typically
a dramatic improvement in the patient’s
vision.
Although
statistically low, complications
due occur with LASIK in around 5%
of patients. Complications include
night glare, halos, or “starbursts”;
over- or under correction; dry eye;
and vision loss. Dramatic side effects
as a result of LASIK are extremely
rare, particularly permanent vision
loss.
LASIK
is surgery, and should therefore be
taken very seriously. It is imperative
that patients carry out extensive
research and exercise caution when
considering the procedure. Locating
a good refractive
surgeon to perform LASIK is the
most crucial aspect of this process.
Speaking with more than one surgeon
is highly advisable.
While
this page should give you a brief
overview of the procedure, be sure
to contact a qualified doctor if you
have questions specific to your case.
Click
on any of the Metro Areas to Find
a LASIK Doctor:
San
Francisco Metro
| East
Bay | North
Bay | San
Francisco City
San Jose
| Solana
& Napa Counties | The
Peninsula
|
