LASIK (Laser In-situ Keratomileusis) is a modification of PRK and can be used to treat low to high degrees of myopia, and moderate amounts of hyperopia and astigmatism. After the eye has been completely numbed using anaesthetic eyedrops, an eyelid retainer is placed between the lids to prevent blinking. Next, a special instrument called a microkeratome or Intralase laser makes a thin flap in the outer layer of the cornea. During this process you may feel a little pressure, but no discomfort. The corneal flap, which remains attached on one side, is folded back. You will be asked to look directly at an overhead target light while the excimer laser reshapes the exposed cornea. A tapping sound, made by the laser can be heard during the procedure. The laser treatment itself takes only 15 to 60 seconds depending on the amount of correction required. Next, the corneal flap is replaced in its original position without the need for stitches. The whole LASIK procedure is completed in about 10 minutes.

Because LASIK is performed under a corneal flap, there is less risk of corneal scarring, less post-operative discomfort and pain, less need for post-operative medication and vision returns more rapidly (often within a day, compared to PRK, which may take a week to do so).

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