One of the most popular ways to correct vision is with a procedure called LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis), which uses a laser to change the curvature of the cornea (outer window of the eye). LASIK has quickly become the procedure of choice for most patients because they recover quickly and have fewer side effects and complications than with other methods of vision correction. In fact, most LASIK patients notice a significant improvement in their vision soon after surgery. LASIK removes tissue within the cornea to treat low to high levels of Nearsightedness, Farsightedness and Astigmatism.
To treat Nearsightedness, the steep cornea is made flatter by removing tissue from the center of the cornea. This moves the point of focus from in front of the retina to directly on the retina.
Treating Nearsightedness, the cornea is made flatter
To treat Farsightedness, the flat cornea is made steeper by removing tissue outside of the central optical zone of the cornea. This moves the point of focus from behind the retina to directly on the retina.
Treating Farsightedness,
the cornea is made steeper
To treat Astigmatism, the cornea is made more spherical -- like a basketball instead of a football. This eliminates multiple focusing points within the eye and creates one point of focus on the retina. Astigmatism can be treated at the same time as nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Treating Astigmatism,
the cornea is made more spherical
LASIK is for those who:
Want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts
Are at least 18 years of age
Have had a stable eye prescription for at least one year
