How is the LASIK procedure performed?
The LASIK procedure will take around an hour to complete and can be performed on an outpatient basis.
You will be awake for the entire procedure and in order to reduce discomfort and numb the pain, local anaesthetic will be applied. Your vision will be blurred throughout the procedure. Here are the steps of the LASIK process.
1) The doctor will ask you to sit down on the reclining chair.
2) In order to numb the area and reduce discomfort, anaesthetic drops will be applied on your eyes.
3) Your eyes will be cleaned with an antibacterial wash.
4) In order to keep your eyes open throughout the procedure, a special instrument will be used so that the eyelids are held in place.
5) A suction ring will be placed on the eye so that there will be pressure on the cornea prior to cutting it.
6) You will be asked to focus on a coloured light, this may be coloured green or red.
7) On the surface of the cornea, a flap will be cut and folded back so that the doctor can reach the tissue underneath it. A special blade called a microkeratome will be used.
8) The tissue that has been exposed will be dried.
9) The laser will be put into position.
10) The laser will be used to remove corneal tissue. A computer will be used to guide the laser in reshaping the cornea. You may notice a smell that is like burning hair during this process.
11) When the right amount of tissue has been removed, the flap is put back into place within seconds.
12) No stitches will be placed.
13) You will be allowed to leave after a few minutes but you should take care of yourself and have someone drive you home.
