Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, or LASIK®, is a type of eye and vision surgery that uses lasers to correct a person’s eyesight. Because LASIK is still relatively new, candidates for the procedure often have concerns. Find answers to common questions below.

What You Need to Know About LASIK Eye Surgery

How does LASIK work?

LASIK uses an excimer laser to lightly reshape the cornea of the eye. Depending on the patient’s specific vision issue, the process corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism. The eye doctor uses a computer to control the laser and ensure precision. After the surgery is complete, the patient will no longer need to wear corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Does it hurt?

Many patients experience no pain with LASIK. The surgeon numbs the site with anesthetic eye drops, and most people report feeling only a gentle pressure during the surgery. After, the eyes may feel somewhat irritated, but doctors often prescribe drops to maintain comfort and speed recovery.

How long does it take?

Not long. From start to finish, the entire eye and vision surgery lasts about 20 minutes — less than 10 minutes per eye. The laser itself only corrects the cornea of each eye for 20-50 seconds.

How much does it improve vision?

Immediately following the procedure, it’s not uncommon to experience slightly blurry or hazy vision for up to two weeks as the eye adjusts. Also, LASIK corrects distance vision and likely will not eliminate the need for reading glasses as patients age. In all, it is an extremely effective treatment, with 99% of patients achieving better than 20/40 vision and over 90% achieving 20/20 vision or better.

See if LASIK is right for you. Comprehensive Eye Care, LTD., offers eye and vision surgery, as well as prescription glasses and contacts, to the Franklin County, MO, region and beyond. Their state-of-the-art treatments use the best, minimally invasive technologies available. Schedule a LASIK consultation by calling (636) 390-3999 or visiting them online.