Understanding the Process of LASIK Surgery

The cornea is the clear, curved outer layer of the eye that aids in the refraction of light to create a focused image on the retina. Ideally, the cornea is perfectly curved to promote a sharply focused image; unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Imperfections in the shape of the cornea are called refractive errors, due to the cornea’s compromised ability to refract (bend) incoming light. Depending on whether the patient is nearsighted or farsighted, this can make objects at certain distances appear blurred. Corrective lenses are able to restore visual acuity to patients with these conditions.

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce or eliminate a patient’s dependence on corrective lenses to see clearly. Before the surgery, patients are asked to stop wearing them for a certain amount of time before surgery and wear only glasses. The thickness and curvature of the patient’s cornea is measured and a map of it is created using low-power lasers.

During this painless procedure, the patient is kept awake during the procedure, which normally takes only 30 minutes. After a numbing drop is placed on the eye, a laser is used to create a flap in the cornea. The patient is then asked to focus on a point of light while the surgeon reshapes the cornea using a high-power excimer laser.

At the end of the procedure, the flap made in the cornea is replaced and a shield is placed over the treated eye. No stitches are used to hold the flap in place, so the shield is used to prevent the patient from rubbing or putting pressure on the eye until it has healed.

The Boston Laser offers blade-free LASIK from experienced and compassionate surgeons who are dedicated to restoring your visual acuity. If you would like more information about LASIK or any other corrective procedure, call us today at (617) 566-0062 or visit us online.