Using the LASIK procedure
Laser in situ keratomileusis

LASIK is now the most widely performed corrective procedure and it has been performed since the mid 1990's. Most types of refractive error may be corrected with this procedure although those with thin corneas or very high corrections may be unsuitable.

Below is some further information about Lasik laser surgery. If you would like to talk with us about laser surgery or have any questions, please call our laser surgery team on 01483 209 518 or email info@surreyeyesurgeons.com. We are based in Guildford, Surrey and have a team of highly qualified eye surgeons.

The LASIK procedure

The procedure does not take long, but you should allow for 2-3 hours at the clinic. During this time, you can ask any remaining questions if you have any and you will be asked to sign a consent form.

Wave front measurements
If you have chosen or it has been recommended to have tissue saving or wave front laser correction the scans measurements will be done and entered in to the laser computer. Ready for your personal treatment.

Please bring someone with you, to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure. No general anaesthetic is used so you can eat and drink prior to the treatment (although no alcohol).

Please do not wear any perfume, make up or mascara. Immediately prior to the procedure, you will be offered a mild sedative (diazepam) to help you relax. You will be given antibiotic and local anaesthetic eye drops, after which you will be taken into theatre, where you will be asked to lie down.

Surgery

• Step 1
  After cleaning the eyes, a sterile cover is placed over the skin. A small device called a speculum is placed between the lids, keeping your eye open and to prevent blinking.
• Step 2
  A small suction ring is placed onto the eye, to hold it still. It is normal for the room to go dark for a few seconds at this point. The femtosecond laser then creates a very thin flap in the cornea, which is folded back.
• Step 3
  You will be moved under the excimer laser and asked to look at a target light, whilst the laser reshapes the corneal surface. This takes 1-5 minutes and is a painless procedure.
• Step 4
  The corneal flap is repositioned. Additional antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are given and a protective transparent shield is placed over the eye. You will return to the waiting room and your eye will be checked before you can go home. Your vision will be blurred but will improve over the next 24 hours.