LASIK, which stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis, is a popular surgery used to correct vision in people who are nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism. One aspect of LASIK surgery that has made it such an innovative and effective procedure is the LASIK flap.
Creating the LASIK Flap
The first step of LASIK eye surgery is to partially detach a very thin layer of tissue from the cornea. This layer of tissue remains attached to the cornea on one side, creating a flap. Your surgeon then uses a cool laser to alter the shape of the cornea beneath the flap. Changing the shape of the cornea corrects the vision problem that is being treated.
After the shape of the corneal tissue beneath the flap has been properly altered, the flap of tissue is set back into place. This flap serves as a protective covering for the area of the eye that has been operated on, and thus facilitates rapid healing. In fact, with the use of a LASIK flap, the corneal tissue can be as much as 90% healed within 24 hours!
Advantages of the LASIK Flap
Before LASIK surgery techniques were developed, doctors used photorefractive keratectomy, PRK, to correct vision. Known as an ablative procedure, PRK removes small pieces of tissue from the surface of the cornea. Though this procedure provides effective vision correction, and is still used in some cases when the cornea is too thin or misshapen to work well with a LASIK procedure, it takes longer to heal. The LASIK flap offers a faster, less painful recovery than the earlier methods of refractive surgery.
In order to determine if LASIK will work well to correct your vision, you should consult with a LASIK surgeon. One of the surgeons at Harvard Eye Associates, who specializes in LASIK surgery in San Clemente, will evaluate your vision, the shape of your cornea, your overall health and other factors. Your surgeon will then provide a suggested course of treatment and help you decide if LASIK is right for you.
If you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, LASIK might be an excellent option to improve your eyesight. For more information about how LASIK can help you, please contact Harvard Eye Associates at 949-951-2020 or harvardeye.com to schedule a LASIK consultation.
