Operating Theatre

Lasik Diagram

Vision Correction With Laser Surgery

Prior to laser surgery a detailed examination is performed to determine your spectacle measurements and check that there are no abnormalities of the eye. Sophisticated equipment is used to analyse the shape of the cornea and measure the thickness of the cornea.

Dr Mesham will then determine whether you are a suitable candidate for lasik and discuss the pros and cons of surgery with you. Factors specific to the condition of your eyes will be discussed and you will have an opportunity to discuss any concerns you might have.

On your surgery day the computer which guides the laser is pre-programmed with the data from your eye measurements. The eye is anaesthetized with drops. An automated microsurgery device called a microkeratome is then used to lift an extremely thin flap from the surface of the cornea, exposing the area to be treated.

The laser then gently corrects the corneal shape by vaporising microscopic layers of corneal tissue. The laser rapidly scans the surface of the cornea removing a precise amount of tissue with each scan until the correct corneal shape has been achieved. The scanning process takes approximately 20 seconds and, depending on the correction, will remove approximately 0.05 millimeters of tissue.

The flap is then repositioned to restore the normal corneal surface. Protective shields are worn over the eyes for the rest of the day. The vision is blurred immediately after surgery but will clear by the next day.

Antibiotic eye drops are used after the surgery. Check-ups are done the day after surgery and again the following week. One may go back to work on the second day after surgery and one may travel a week later.