LASIK (LASER Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) is the most common laser procedure done on the eye to reduce and eliminate refractive error. More than 100,000 people a year now have this procedure performed in the UK.
During LASIK, an eye surgeon cuts across the cornea of the eye and raises a flap of tissue and carries out reshaping to correct vision.
LASIK is often used for people who are short-sighted, long-sighted, or who have astigmatism. LASIK, may not be suitable for people with strong lens prescriptions, such as a high degree of short-sightedness.
No medical procedure is without risks, and complications can happen in fewer than 1 in 50 laser eye operations.
One in 3 people patients will still need to glasses some of the time after the procedure, such as for night driving
Despite the pluses, there are some disadvantages:
Some patients experience discomfort in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
Other side effects, although rare, may include:
Before your LASIK laser eye surgery, you will meet with an adviser who will discuss what you should expect during and after the surgery. During this session, your medical history will be evaluated and your eyes will be tested. Likely tests include measuring corneal thickness, refraction, and pupil dilation. At any meeting with your surgeon, you should ask further questions you may have. Afterwards, you can book an appointment for the procedure.