LASIK

Lasik (since 1994)
 

This combined technique is the most widespread procedure. First, a thin flap of cornea is created with a microkeratome. Then the flap is lifted up, allowing the laser to treat deeper instead of at the surface of the cornea. The flap is then put back into place and covers the treated zone. Both eyes can be done during the same procedure.

For myopic patients, the laser flattens the centre of the cornea; for hyperopic patients, the laser modifies the periphery thus making the cornea more curved; and for people with astigmatism the laser gives back a spherical shape to the cornea.

Lasik has numerous advantages over PRK :

reduction of the postoperative discomfort which eliminates the need of wearing a bandage contact lens for a few days following the surgery;
reduction of scarring and infection risks;
facility of treatment if an enhancement surgery is necessary;
elimination of extended treatment with cortisone drops, thus decreasing the frequency of postoperative follow-ups.
 

A corneal flap is lifted up with an automatic microkeratome.
Picture of the corneal flap exposing the deeper layers of the cornea (stroma).
Application of the Excimer laser on the stroma of cornea.
The flap is then put back in its initial position, without the need of suture.