LASIK

LASIK (Laser In-situ Keratomileusis) is the world’s most commonly performed Laser Vision Correction procedure. With its wide treatment range and visual recovery speed, LASIK is backed by proven technology and results.

LASIK is a procedure performed to correct short-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism.

About the procedure

Using the femtosecond laser, a very thin flap of tissue is created on the outer surface of the cornea (the front clear transparent part of the eye). This is folded back to expose the underlying corneal tissue, which is reshaped with an Excimer laser to correct the refractive error. The flap is then replaced in it is original position which immediately starts to heal. Usually within a few hours, the surface layer or corneal epithelium starts to grow to seal the flap. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are used after the procedure as advised by your eye doctor.

LASIK benefits

Poses little or no post operative pain or discomfort
Generally a quick visual recovery
Most frequently performed procedure

Treatment standard for more than 20 years
Covers a wide prescription range
Optimal outcomes for vision correction

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FAQs

What is LASIK?

LASIK is a precise surgical procedure which uses two different lasers and aims to reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses.

Who is suitable for LASIK?

In general LASIK surgery is most suited to people:

Aged 20–45
With a prescription that has been stable for the past 12 months
With a healthy cornea of adequate thickness.

How does LASIK differ from PresbyLASIK, SMILE® Pro or PRK?

LASIK uses computer-guided light-pulse technology to create a thin flap of corneal tissue which is lifted to enable the cornea to be precisely re-shaped using a second laser. The flap is resettled on the corneal bed, allowing healing to begin immediately with no sutures required.
PresbyLASIK is a type of Laser Vision Correction designed to correct presbyopia, an age related condition that makes it difficult to see objects up close. People aged 40 and older with presbyopia who are also short-sighted, far-sighted, or have astigmatism may be good candidates for PresbyLASIK. PresbyLASIK involves creating a thin flap on the surface of the cornea, usually with a femtosecond laser. The excimer laser is then used to reshape the corneal tissue to create a multifocal corneal surface. This reshaping allows light to be focused at different distances, addressing both short and far vision issues. Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is repositioned, and it heals naturally over time without the need for stitches.
SMILE® Pro keyhole surgery is a fast, accurate, bladeless, one-step procedure. The surgeon creates a 3mm opening in the cornea then manually removes a precisely measured disc of corneal tissue (lenticule) through the incision. This changes the shape of the cornea and eliminates short-sightedness and astigmatism up to a certain limit.
PRK uses laser to remove the front layer of cells on the cornea known as the epithelium. Vision correction is limited to the outer layers of the cornea, which aids comfort during the recovery process and speeds up healing time.
LASIK, PresbyLASIK, and SMILE® Pro offer a faster, more comfortable recovery than PRK, however they are not suitable for people with a thin or irregular corneal surface. The visual outcome following PRK is excellent and there is a lower incidence of ocular dryness (dry eye) which can occur with other procedures.

How long does the LASIK procedure take?

The entire LASIK procedure takes just 20 minutes however you will be in the laser suite for around two hours.

How long does it take to recover from the LASIK procedure?

It’s likely that you will be ready to return to the majority of daily activities the day after surgery, however you will experience fluctuations in vision for the first week following LASIK.

How will my eyes feel after LASIK?

Soon after LASIK surgery you may experience:

Sticky, gritty eyes
Excessive eye watering
Glare sensitivity
Significant pain is rare

Will I be able to drive without glasses or contact lenses following my LASIK procedure?

Most people are legally able to drive a car without glasses or contact lenses following recovery from LASIK surgery. You are required, by law, to attend the Roads and Maritime Service following surgery to have your licence endorsed for driving without spectacles or contact lenses if you meet the visual acuity criteria.

Is there anything I can’t do after my LASIK procedure?

Please do not drive immediately after your procedure – having had surgery and medication, you must wait at least 24 hours and until adequate vision returns. Your surgeon will provide further advice.
To protect your eyes, do not wash your hair for 24 hours after the procedure and avoid makeup, soap, shampoo and water in the eye for one week.
Do not rub your eyes, swim or play contact sports for two weeks. Do not ski, surf, or undertake other intense physical activities where there is a chance of impact for four weeks.
You will be more comfortable if you wear sunglasses when outside for a few days following your surgery.