What is LASIK?
By David Bogorad, MD, FACS
Director of the MCG Refractive Surgery Service
MCG Eye Care Associates

October 21, 2002

Augusta, Ga. -- Over the past decade, LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, has become the procedure of choice for many ophthalmologists and patients who desire to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses for distance vision. However, a number of misconceptions still exist regarding this type of surgery.

At its most basic level, LASIK involves the use of an excimer, or "cold" laser, which emits gentle pulses of ultraviolet light that vaporize tissue cells one microscopic layer at a time to change the shape of the cornea and correct the eye's focusing power. LASIK may be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

Unlike earlier laser procedures, LASIK does not require removal of the surface of the cornea. Instead, a flap is created in the cornea's delicate surface and swung back. Once the laser beam has corrected the focus of the eye, which usually takes about one minute, the flap is swung back into place. Healing begins almost immediately.

Benefits of this procedure include a decreased risk of scarring and little or no discomfort during or after the procedure. Many patients also experience improved vision immediately afterward.

Often, patients are curious about what to expect during the procedure. Patients remain awake throughout, but medication is given for relaxation and numbing drops are applied to the eye so patients have minimal, if any discomfort. A speculum holds the eye open while the beam operates. The complete LASIK procedure takes only about 10 minutes per eye, but patients should set aside at least an hour or two for their visit on the day of treatment.

Post-surgery, patients may feel a burning sensation for a few hours as feeling returns to the eye. It is very important not to rub the eye as it may dislodge the corneal flap that was replaced. Immediate improvement to vision is the norm, although some patients experience an initial blurring of vision before their vision clears. Most people can return to work in one or two days. Other recommendations are to avoid gardening or any dirty or dusty environment for one week after surgery. Also, don't swim or use a hot tub or sauna for one month after surgery.

In less than five to 10 percent of cases, an enhancement (further reshaping) is required. At MCG, there is no additional cost for enhancement, should it be appropriate, during the first year after the initial treatment.

While LASIK may not be for everyone, it is a viable choice for the majority of people looking to correct their vision. Find a physician whom you trust and who has the experience with the procedure. At MCG, we will work individually with you to determine exactly the type of correction you need to get the vision you want.

Editor's note: Dr. Bogorad is also an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology with the Medical College of Georgia. Previously, he was Director of Refractive Surgery in the Henry Ford Health System Department of Ophthalmology-one of the nation's largest eye departments-and pioneered LASIK surgery there in 1997. Dr. Bogorad has performed more than 3,000 LASIK procedures.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.