Lasik Eye Surgery: What Does it Mean?

What Is Lasik Eye Surgery? LASIK eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery that is used to correct vision in people who are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. LASIK is an acronym for ?laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis?. The surgery is performed by using a laser to create a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted so that the corneal tissue beneath can be reshaped. Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is then replaced. How Is Lasik Eye Surgery Performed? LASIK eye surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight. The surgery itself only takes a few minutes to perform, but you will need to plan on being at the doctor?s office or surgery center for several hours. Before the surgery begins, you will be given eye drops to numb your eyes. You will also be given a sedative to help you relax. Once your eyes are numb and you are relaxed, the surgeon will use a device called a microkeratome to...