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What
is LASIK?
 LASIK is an acronym for
Laser in-situ Keratomileusis, which simply means "to shape the cornea within using a
laser." It corrects vision by reshaping the cornea (outer window of
the eye) so that light rays focus more precisely on the retina, thereby reducing
or eliminating refractive errors.
What
is done during LASIK?
The procedure starts
with the creation of a very thin layer of the cornea that is folded back to
create a "flap." For nearsightedness (myopia) gentle pulses of the cool
light of the excimer laser then flatten the shape of the cornea to focus
light rays back on the retina. For astigmatism, the laser flattens the
steeper meridian or equator of the cornea to make the cornea more round and
focus light rays more evenly on the retina. For farsightedness (hyperopia),
the Excimer laser creates a steeper shape of the cornea to focus light rays
directly on the retina. Finally, the flap is returned to it's original
position, for a quick natural recovery.
What is a Refractive Error?
Refraction refers to how a lens, such as a cornea, bends light rays.
When light rays are bent by the cornea so that they converge on the back
of the eye, (the retina), vision is clear. When the cornea is shaped
either too flat or too steep, light rays will not converge on the retina,
resulting in vision that is out of focus. LASIK laser
vision correction utilizes the Excimer laser to gently reshape the cornea
with "cool" laser light. This improves the refractive
error of nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic eye.
What
are the Rewards?
-
 Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism maybe reduced so that
the amount of time during the day
contact lenses or eyeglasses are used is reduced or eliminated.
- Minimal
post-operative discomfort
- Little
fluctuation of vision
- Positive
cosmetic and recreational aspects
- Short
outpatient treatment allows minimal time off work (Procedure averages less than 15 minutes per eye)
What
are the Risks?
- LASIK is an
elective treatment. As with any surgery, there are risks, which Dr. Cano
will discuss with you in great detail.
- There is NO
GUARANTEE that it will completely eliminate any reliance on corrective
lenses.
- There is a
small chance of infection during the healing of the cornea, which is
greatest during the first 3 days to one week, as with any type of surgery.
- Night glare often occurs during the healing process
- Blurriness often occurs during the healing process (3 to 10 days)
Am
I a good Candidate for LASIK?
LASIK is not for everyone, and
Dr. Cano will advise you about certain conditions that may prevent you from
being a good candidate for this procedure.
- You must be
at least 18 years old.
- Your
prescription for corrective lenses must have remained stable for at least
one year (usually occurs at about 18 to 21 years of age).
- You should have good general health.
- You
must be free from significant eye diseases.
Lets Look at LASIK in Greater Detail 
Includes: Vision Types, Steps of the Procedure, Questions & Answers, and more !
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