LASIK eye surgery is the best known and most commonly performed laser refractive surgery to correct vision problems. Laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses (LASIK) can be an alternative to glasses or contact lenses. During LASIK surgery, a special type of cutting laser is used to precisely change the shape of the dome-shaped clear tissue at the front of your eye (cornea) to improve vision.
In eyes with normal vision, the cornea bends (refracts) light precisely onto the retina at the back of the eye. But with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism, the light is bent incorrectly, resulting in blurred vision.
The best candidates for LASIK are those who are over 21 years of age with healthy eyes and an adequate corneal thickness. Your optometrist can assess if LASIK is optimal for you and refer you to the appropriate surgeon.
In the aftermath of the surgery, you will require follow-ups that can be co-managed by an optometrist. Even with perfect vision you still need to have your eyes examined for glaucoma and other potential problems on a regular basis. Routine exams will help ensure that your vision remains stable after LASIK.