Overview of lasik procedure for New York residents

Laser vision correction is minimally invasive eye surgery

LASIK Surgery

After a series of examinations have been performed, the patient is given eye drops to numb the eye. Some doctors will also give patients a dose of medication to help them remain calm if necessary. A few last minute examinations are done prior to surgery and, if all is well, the doctor will begin the LASIK procedure.

A device called a microkeratome cuts a flap of thin tissue off of the cornea and the flap is lifted out of the way. The laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue in bursts of high-powered light. After the laser has reshaped the cornea to a predetermined shape, the surgeon gently pulls the flap back over the cornea and allows it to heal naturally. No stitches are necessary; the adhesive bond that the cornea and flap create after they are reunited is virtually instantaneous. If both eyes were to be treated in the same day, the doctor may immediately begin with the second eye.

After the surgery and a quick examination, a protective shield is placed over the eye. Painkillers are prescribed to help with any mild irritation that follows the surgery. You will be given instructions regarding what you may do and what you should avoid to give you the best LASIK results.

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