LASIK Eye Surgery: What to Expect

Are you considering the LASIK eye surgery procedure? Learn about the procedure step by step, and what to expect about the procedure.

LASIK stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis. It includes the reshaping of the cornea so that light traveling through the cornea is properly focused onto the retina, located in the back of the eye. The surgery is used to correct nearsighted, farsighted vision or people who have astigmatism.

Preparing for LASIK eye surgery

Before the procedure, you will meet with your ophthalmologist who will discuss the process of the procedure and what to expect. During the consultation there will be a discussion about your medical history and a full eye exam will be performed. During the consultation, the ophthalmologist will proceed with an evaluation to be certain you’re a qualified patient for LASIK.

The evaluation will include measurement of corneal thickness, refraction, corneal mapping, eye pressure, and pupil dilation. This exam allows the ophthalmologist better understand your eye health in order to better customize the procedure for you. Be sure to bring your eyeglasses to the consultation so your prescription can be reviewed.

This procedure does require local anesthesia, however they are in the form of eye drops and it usually takes an average of ten minutes to complete. Make sure to plan on having someone drive you home after surgery.

The surgeon will be using an instrument called a microkeratome or femtosecond laser. These instruments are used to create a thin flap in the cornea. The cornea is pulled back, allowing another laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The reshaping of the cornea allows your eyes to properly focus light onto the retina. The corneal flap is then put back into place.

You may encounter some discomfort and dry eyes in the first 24 to 48 hours. Eye drops will be prescribed to keep your eyes moist and to prevent infection and inflammation. During use, these eye drops may cause a temporary burn or blurring of your vision. Because eyes heal quickly, recovery is generally a very short process. Vision may be blurry and hazy for the first day, but most patients notice improved vision within a few days of surgery. You will follow-up with your ophthalmologist within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and on a regular basis for six months after surgery.