LASIK

What is LASIK surgery?

LASIK stands for laser in situ keratomileusis. LASIK surgery is the most popular form of laser eye surgery, in which an ophthalmic surgeon reshapes the cornea of the eye using an excimer laser. LASIK eye surgery alters the refractive properties of the cornea and thereby corrects or enhances eyesight.

Having LASIK two weeks ago was great, I can see perfectly. The only thing is that it has made me late for things because I used to put on my glasses and my watch at the same time, now I am forgetting to put my watch on because I don't have to put my glasses on! — Caroline N., Orston, Nottingham

What can LASIK eye surgery treat?

LASIK eye treatment can correct of a full range of conditions, including myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism.

A note on brand names used for LASIK surgery in the UK

In the UK, many clinics use other names to attempt to differentiate what is effectively the same procedure. Brand names include: UltraLASIK, UltraLASIKplus, Accu-wave LASIK, Custom LASIK, Wavefront LASIK, Zyoptix etc. These names represent the same treatment, guided by a wavefront aberrometer. Many clinics offer these branded treatments at a higher cost than conventional LASIK eye surgery. In contrast, London Vision Clinic provides all of its patients LASIK surgery guided by a wavefront aberrometer if they need it — without additional cost. In the interest of clarity, we just call it LASIK.

A note on "all-laser LASIK"

Recently, some clinics introduced the terms Femtosecond LASIK and IntraLASIK to the UK. This again is basic LASIK eye surgery; however, instead of using the traditional microkeratome instrument to create the corneal flap, the surgeon uses a separate laser cut the corneal flap. Femtosecond manufacturers often claim that surgeons adopting this laser can reduce complications or achieve better outcomes. However, we have not found conclusive evidence that favours results achieved with the IntraLase™ over the microkeratome.

At London Vision Clinic, LASIK eye surgery consists of five steps:

1. Before LASIK eye surgery, clinicians measure the dimensions and properties of the untreated eye using such techniques as wavefront analysis and topographical mapping and through diagnostic instruments such as a pachymeter or an Artemis. From these measurements, surgeons can calculate the necessary and precise amount of LASIK eye surgery correction.
2. During LASIK eye surgery, a precision instrument called a microkeratome, creates an exceptionally thin and accurate corneal flap of corneal tissue from the surface of the eye. Surgeons do not completely remove the corneal flap but leave it anchored on one side. This technique allows surgeons to replace the corneal flap in the same position once the LASIK procedure is complete.
3. The surgeon raises the corneal flap, and an excimer laser sculpts the bed of the cornea to match to the dimensions determined before LASIK surgery.
4. The surgeon replaces the corneal flap and, within minutes, natural forces hold the corneal flap in place the LASIK eye surgery is complete.
5. In a few hours after the LASIK eye surgery, the surface of the cornea starts to grow over the cut edge of the corneal flap and to seal it in position. Healing is complete within a week or so after LASIK treatment.

What are the advantages of LASIK surgery over other laser eye surgery procedures?

Compared to PRK or LASEK, LASIK surgery healing times are significantly shorter, with LASIK patients typically returning to work and leisure activities within two or three days of their LASIK eye surgery.

Vision improvement after LASIK eye surgery is virtually instantaneous, and it is perfectly safe and routine to treat both eyes using LASIK surgery on the same day.

100% percent of London Vision Clinic LASIK patients (from —9.00D to +6.00D) and meet the UK required standard for driving without glasses, although for some LASIK patients - particularly those with higher prescriptions - glasses or contact lenses may still be required for some activities.

If you want to know more about your suitability for the LASIK operation

Contact a patient education consultant on 0800 587 4705 to learn more about LASIK surgery and other laser eye surgery procedures.