LASIK laser refractive surgery is the most advanced method of correcting refractive errors, particularly in the treatment of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This surgical technique is a painless, quick, effective, and very safe procedure. The main objective of LASIK is to eliminate or reduce dependence on corrective lenses. This technique does not correct presbyopia or "eyestrain," a natural condition that is directly associated with aging and is based on a decrease in the ability to focus on nearby objects. LASIK is the recommended correction method for those who suffer from myopia, hyperopia, and/or astigmatism, are over 18 years of age, and have healthy corneas. To undergo this surgery, you must not have had a significant increase in prescription in the last 12 months or have any medical problems (specify which ones) that could prevent this operation. The surgery consists of removing microscopic layers of corneal tissue. A device called an excimer laser changes the shape of this part of the eye, allowing light rays to focus more accurately on the retina. In order to undergo this technique, you must get detailed information about your refractive defect by making a personal appointment and speaking to your doctor. If your refractive defect is in the LASIK correction range, some tests will be performed. If not, the doctor may recommend another refractive procedure in order to solve your problem.

Before surgery:

The surgeon will evaluate if the patient meets all the conditions to perform the surgery, taking into account several aspects that can condition the results of this surgery, such as very dilated pupils, the eye being dry or previous ocular lesions.

Procedure:

 The patient lies down on a reclining chair in an outpatient surgery room. The eye to be operated on is anesthetized with drops, and then a small surgical instrument (blepharostat) is placed to keep the eyelids open during surgery. A suction ring is then placed over the cornea to secure it and prevent eye movement. At this point, the patient may feel pressure from the blepharostat and their vision may become blurred. Next, the microkeratome—an automated microsurgical instrument—is attached to the suction ring. As the microkeratome blade glides over the cornea, the patient will hear a metallic sound and have poor vision. When the microkeratome stops working, a flap of tissue will have been created, which is folded back and held in place at one end. (Fig. 1) The laser is then activated at the thickness of the cornea. At this point, the patient must stare at a red light, while their vision is blurred and they hear a sound corresponding to the laser performing the ablation. (Fig. 2) Finally, the surgeon puts the flap that was folded back into place and it attaches itself without the need for stitches (Fig. 3).

After surgery:

The patient will walk around with a bandaged eye for one day and will be able to resume their activity the next day. Vision will recover in the days or weeks following surgery and in some cases it may take several months to achieve the clarity of vision the patient had when wearing glasses or contact lenses.