What does LASIK eye surgery do and how does it work?
Many people wear glasses or contact lenses to see clearly. Some people look for other options. One option is LASIK eye surgery.
A common question is simple. What does LASIK do, and how does it work?
At IVISION LASER in Adelaide, we help patients understand their vision and treatment options. This article explains LASIK in clear and simple terms.
This information is general in nature and does not replace advice from a qualified eye health professional.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a type of laser eye surgery. It is used to correct vision problems called refractive errors.1https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
Refractive errors affect how light focuses in the eye. When light does not focus correctly, vision can become blurry.2https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
Common refractive errors include short sightedness, long sightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK works by changing the shape of the front part of the eye. This part is called the cornea.3https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
By reshaping the cornea, LASIK helps light focus more clearly on the retina. The retina sends signals to the brain so you can see.
How the eye focuses light
To understand LASIK, it helps to know how the eye works.
Light enters the eye through the cornea. The cornea bends the light as it enters. The light then passes through the lens inside the eye. The lens helps fine tune the focus.4https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
The goal is for light to land clearly on the retina at the back of the eye. If the light does not land in the right place, vision may be blurry. LASIK changes how the cornea bends light so it focuses more accurately.5https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
How LASIK works
LASIK uses a laser to reshape the cornea.
During the procedure, a thin layer is created on the surface of the cornea. This layer is gently lifted. The laser then removes a small amount of corneal tissue. This changes the shape of the cornea.6https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
After this step, the thin layer is placed back into position. This new shape helps light focus more clearly on the retina. The procedure is precise and guided by advanced technology.7https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
What conditions LASIK can treat
LASIK is used to treat common refractive errors.
For short sightedness, LASIK flattens the cornea. This helps light move back to the correct position on the retina.8https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
For long sightedness, LASIK makes the cornea steeper. This helps light move forward to the correct position.9https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
For astigmatism, LASIK smooths the shape of the cornea. This helps create clearer focus.10https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
Results can vary depending on the individual eye and prescription.
What LASIK does not treat
LASIK does not treat every eye condition.
It does not stop the natural ageing of the eyes. For example, reading vision often changes with age. This is called presbyopia. LASIK also does not treat conditions like cataracts or diseases of the retina.11https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/when-lasik-not-me
It is important to understand what LASIK can and cannot do.
Your eye doctor will explain this during your consultation.
What to expect during the procedure
LASIK is usually a quick procedure.
Before it begins, numbing eye drops are placed in your eyes. These drops help prevent pain. You will be asked to lie still and look at a target light. You may feel light pressure for a short time. Most patients do not feel pain.12https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
The laser works for a short period, and the process is completed quickly.13https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
Your care team will guide you through each step.
What happens after LASIK
After the procedure, your eyes begin to heal.
Some patients notice blurry vision at first. This often improves over time. You may also notice light sensitivity or a feeling of dryness. These symptoms are usually temporary.14https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071228215645.htm
Most patients go home on the same day.
Your doctor will give you eye drops and aftercare instructions to support healing.15https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071228215645.htm
How long does recovery take?
Recovery can vary from person to person.
Many patients notice improved vision within a short time. However, the eyes may take longer to fully settle.16https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik
Follow up visits are important to check how your eyes are healing. Your doctor will let you know when you can return to normal activities.17https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik
Following instructions helps support safe recovery.
Who may be suitable for LASIK?
Not everyone is suitable for LASIK.
Suitability depends on factors such as your eye health, cornea thickness, and prescription.
Stable vision is also important. This means your prescription has not changed much over time.
A full eye assessment is needed to decide if LASIK may be suitable for you.
If it is not suitable, other options may be discussed.
Understanding risks and results
All medical procedures carry some level of risk. LASIK is no exception.
Most patients have a smooth recovery, but results can vary.
Some people may still need glasses for certain tasks after surgery.
It is important to have clear and realistic expectations.
Your eye doctor will explain the potential benefits and risks based on your eyes.
Why a consultation matters
A consultation is the best way to learn about your options.
During this visit, your eye doctor will examine your eyes and discuss your vision goals.
They will explain whether LASIK may be suitable for you.
This is also your chance to ask questions and understand the process.
Clear information helps you make an informed decision.
Take the next step
If you are asking what LASIK does and how it works, the answer is that it reshapes the cornea to help light focus more clearly.
For many people, this may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.
The best way to find out if LASIK may be right for you is through a proper assessment.
Every set of eyes is different, and treatment plans are based on your individual needs.
You can start by taking the suitability self test. This quick step can help you explore your options and decide if you would like to book a consultation.
Find out if you are suitable for vision correction
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
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Hi, I’m Dr Aanchal Gupta, your laser and cataract surgeon in Adelaide
Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the joy of helping thousands of patients of all ages gain clear vision and freedom from glasses and contact lenses.
Laser eye surgery is a skill. Performing vision correction at a world-class standard hinges upon the expertise of your surgeon and their access to state-of-the-art tools.
I understand that getting eye surgery is a serious decision. Your eyes are unique and you should demand a custom solution tailored to your needs, lifestyle and goals. That’s why we offer a free appointment so we can meet and I can take the time to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you have.
I am passionate about helping patients transform their lives. I look forward to spending time with you at our gorgeous eye clinic in the heart of Adelaide to see whether you could gain exceptional vision without the need for glasses or contacts.
Dr Aanchal Gupta
MBBS, M.Med. (Ophth. Sci.), Grad. Dip. (Refract. Surg.), FRANZCO
Expert Laser Eye and Cataract Surgeon
