LASIK is a procedure used to correct or reduce moderate to high levels of myopia. In LASIK, the surgeon combines the use of a keratome and the excimer laser to remove a thin layer of tissue from the center of the cornea. By removing the tissue, the central cornea is flattened and myopia is reduced. This procedure is very similar to ALK for myopia.
In LASIK, the surgeon creates a flap in the cornea using a surgical instrument called a microkeratome.
The surgeon uses the laser to remove a micro-thin layer of tissue from the exposed corneal surface.
The flap is replaced without the need for sutures.
Complications and Side Effects
Complications and side effects can include:
- Irregular astigmatism, resulting in a decrease in best corrected vision
- Glare
- Corneal haze
- Over-correction
- Under-correction
- Inability to wear contact lenses
- Loss of the corneal cap, requiring a corneal graft
- Corneal scarring, infection and loss of vision
