LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a version of laser eye surgery which is more complicated than PRK but allows for faster healing. It is used primarily to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism by changing the shape of the cornea.

The procedure begins when the surgeon cuts a flap in the cornea using a laser or a sharp blade, leaving a small piece as a hinge. The surgeon then lifts the flap and uses a computer-guided laser to remove precise amounts of tissue from inside the cornea. Once finished, the flap is replaced.

An alternate version involves the outer layer of the cornea being removed by a blunt blade instead of a sharp one. This is called Epi-LASIK.

In either case, the cornea should heal faster than it would with PRK and other laser surgeries.

There are a few things to consider before choosing LASIK.

1. Do you play sports, particularly the kind where something might strike you in the face? There is the risk of a dislocated corneal flap for years following the surgery.

2. Some medical conditions and family histories of them could be problematic, including herpes simplex, glaucoma or eyelid infections. These should be discussed with the surgeon prior to the procedure.

3. Some jobs (pilot, police officer) require standards of vision that LASIK can help you achieve. Other jobs prohibit certain procedures.

4. Most medical insurance will not cover this type of procedure.

5. If your cornea is too thin, attempting the procedure may blind you.

6. This condition tends to cause dry eyes, and can aggravate already existing dry eye conditions.

7. LASIK is not usually available to anybody under the age of 18.

8. If you are over age 40, you will still need reading glasses after the procedure.

9. If your prescription has changed in the year before you plan surgery, you are considered to have refractive instability. This can happen due to some medications, fluctuating hormones from an illness and pregnancy or breastfeeding. This creates additional risks which should be discussed with your doctor.

10. Surgical infection is a possibility.

Participating in follow-up care after surgery can decrease some risks.

Should you decide you want LASIK surgery, this is what you can expect before and during surgery.

1. Before surgery, a baseline evaluation will determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you wear contact lenses, it is important to switch back to glasses before the procedure. Switch from hard lenses four weeks in advance, RGP lenses at least three weeks in advance, and soft lenses two weeks in advance.

2. A discussion with a doctor about medications and allergies you may have, as well as your responsibilities.

3. The day before surgery, stop using cosmetics such as perfumes, lotions, creams and makeup. Make sure your eyelashes are clean as debris on them may increase the risk of surgical infection.

4. Arrange for transportation to and from surgery. Medicine given to you to help relax will impair your ability to drive.

5. During surgery, your eye will have a numbing drop put on it and be cleaned, and a metal suction ring will be put on your eye if a mechanical cornea blade (keratome) is being used. If a laser is being used, a clear plastic plate will be used instead.

6. Your vision will still work, but will be blurred during the procedure. You will be asked to stare at a light to assist the procedure.

7. No stitches are used to hold the cornea flap in place after it is put back down, so a protective shield should be given to you for your eye.

After surgery, you may expect mild discomfort, burning, scratchiness or watery eyes for three days. Light sensitivity and blurred vision may persist for one week. Dry eyes and difficulty driving at night, or a glare, can persist for four weeks. Visual fluctuations can be expected for six months.

Sources: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/med/surgery-chirurgie-eng.php, http://www.lasikeyecentres.com/

Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1860031/do_you_need_lasik_surge...