What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis. LASIK is a type of surgical procedure where the goal is to reduce the patient's dependence on wearing glasses or contact lenses. An excimer laser is used to change the shape of the cornea. A knife called a microkeratome is used to cut a flap in the cornea, which is folded back to reveal the stroma. The excimer laser is then used to vaporize parts of the stroma. LASIK offers a number of benefits over other forms of laser vision correction because it is performed under a protective layer of corneal tissue.
LASIK Information on the FDA website (click to open a new window)
What you should know about LASIK?
"Before you even think about [LASIK] procedures...the most important decision is choosing a quality surgeon - someone who spends time with you pre- and post-op... In particular, avoid "shooters" - surgeons who
fly in, zap eyes, and fly out, leaving follow-up care to optometrists or so-called LASIK technicians."
-- OPRAH magazine, June, 2006
Pepose Vision Institute has been performing LASIK procedures for over 15
years, and has the best track record of vision outcomes of any LASIK surgery
center in the St. Louis area. We've even earned the distinction of quot;top 100" LASIK provider nationwide!
Click here to learn more about the vision correction
specialists at Pepose Vision Institute
(click to open a new window)
What to expect before LASIK
Before your LASIK surgery, you need to have an initial evaluation by a LASIK specialist
. You will need to stop wearing contacts for at 2 to 4 weeks before your evaluation, and switch to only glasses. Contact lenses change the shape of your cornea temporarily, and the LASIK procedure may not turn out right if your cornea is not at it's natural state. Stop wearing contacts for:
2 weeks if you wear soft lenses
3 weeks
if you wear toric soft lenses or RGP lenses
4 weeks if you wear hard lenses
Remember that your LASIK procedure depends on following this
schedule! Also, you should stop the use of lotions, make-up, or perfume/cologne a day before your LASIK surgery.
Learn more about laser eye surgery and LASIK at MedlinePlus (click to open a new window)
What to expect during LASIK
The LASIK procedure should only last about a half hour. The patient lies down in the exam room where the excimer laser is located. Numbing drops will be applied to the eye, and a speculum will be keep the eyelids from closing. A suction device is used to create a suction on the cornea. The microkeratome is used to create the flap on the cornea, and the flap is folded back. The patient will be asked to stare a t a light to keep their eye in a fixed position, and the laser will be started by the surgeon. The amount of energy that the laser used is programmed by your surgeon in a computer prior to the surgery. Once the laser is finished, the flap is placed back into position.
Learn more about laser eye surgery and LASIK at MedlinePlus (click to open a new window)
What to expect after LASIK
After your LASIK procedure, you may feel a slight burn, itch, or
discomfort in your eye. Both eyes may water, but do not rub your eyes. If the flap is moved, you may require treatment. You should see your doctor within 24 to 48 hours after your LASIK procedure. You should
avoid using lotions or perfume/cologne for two weeks afterwards. You
should avoid swimming or using hot tubs for 1 to 2 months as well.
For more information, or to schedule a LASIK consultation, call
636-728-0111 or Toll Free at
1-877-862-2020
