LASIK - What to Expect

Laser vision correction procedures have improved eyesight for millions of people worldwide, and have become part of the American way of life. LASIK remains the most successful laser procedure in the world to reduce the dependence on glasses and contacts.

LASIK is an acronym for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis. It utilizes cool ultraviolet light energy from an Excimer laser to reshape the curvature of the cornea and focus light on the retina. The majority of patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can benefit greatly from this technology.

The ten minute LASIK procedure consists of three basic steps. During Intralase a thin layer of the cornea is lifted using a laser. Next, the Excimer laser pulses gently reshape the corneal surface. Finally, after the laser treatment has been completed, the corneal flap is replaced in its original position and allowed to seal into place.

The entire procedure is fast, effective and pain-free. If desired, both eyes can be treated during the same treatment session.

Most patients who undergo LASIK will notice improvement of their vision within a few hours. However, patients are advised to keep their eyes closed as much as possible the day of the procedure.

Preoperative Assessment

A detailed evaluation of your eyes will be performed by Dr. DeStafeno to see if you are an excellent candidate for laser vision correction. It takes approximately one hour and includes:

1. Refraction of your eyes (before and after drops)

2. Corneal topography (detailed mapping of your corneal shape)

3. Corneal pachymetry (ultrasonic measurement of corneal thickness)

4. Pupil assessment (in dim and bright light)

5. Intraocular pressure

6. Tear film assessment

7. Keratometry (a measurement of corneal steepness)

8. Detailed retinal examination

Once all the tests are completed, a discussion of candidacy and informed consent will take place with the doctor.

Alternatively, a screening exam can be performed (which takes about 15 minutes) to see if you are even a potential candidate for laser surgery.

The Procedure

Prior to the procedure, a nurse will prep your eye by putting a numbing drop, antibiotic drops, and a steroid drop in your eye.

Once the laser has been properly calibrated, your surgeon will place an eyelid holder in your eye to keep it open throughout the procedure. Your surgeon then uses the laser to create a corneal flap. A cool laser beam of light from the Excimer laser is then used to precisely and gently reshape the cornea

When the surgeon is finished, the flap is carefully put back into place, and after two to three minutes, the eyelid holder is removed.

After your procedure is completed, you will relax in the recovery room for about ten to fifteen minutes. Your surgeon will check your eyes at the slit lamp to make sure the flap is in good position before you leave the center. You are given protective eye shields to place over your eyes to prevent you from rubbing your eyes while sleeping during the first week, and sunglasses to reduce the discomfort that sunlight may cause. During this early postoperative period, it is important to not squeeze or rub the eyes. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used to prevent infection and decrease inflammation.

After leaving the center, it is recommended that patients keep their eye closed the day of surgery. Later that evening, most patients will see a noticeable improvement in their vision. Many patients go back to work the next day, while others wait a few days.

Your doctor will see you for a postoperative check the first day after surgery. There are a few restrictions for a week or so following your procedure, but as long as you follow your doctor’s instructions, you should be free to resume all of your normal activities thereafter. Steroid and antibiotic drops are taken for the first five days after surgery.