Health Library

Lasik eye surgery - series

Normal anatomy

The cornea is the transparent part of the eye that covers the iris. It is also the main light bending part of the eye.

Procedure, part 1

Anesthetic eye drops are given to numb the eye and the surgeon marks the cornea with water-soluble ink to guide replacement of the corneal flap.

Procedure, part 2

The surgeon performs a keratectomy, which creates a corneal flap. A keratectomy is a procedure that uses a small instrument that makes a cut in the cornea as it moves across it. The flap is lifted and reflected, exposing the cornea beneath.

Procedure, part 3

A computer-controlled laser reshapes the cornea to the prescribed shape for clear vision.

Aftercare

The corneal flap is repositioned and bonds to the cut edge of the cornea quickly.

Related Information

Review Date: 1/29/2024  

Reviewed By: Audrey Tai, DO, MS, Athena Eye Care, Mission Viejo, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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