LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis) For Nearsightedness

Surgery Overview

LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a surgery that flattens the cornea. It's the most common laser surgery for correcting nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. LASIK makes a small flap in the cornea and removes some of the tissue exposed by the flap. The laser removes tissue from the cornea very accurately. It doesn't damage nearby tissues.

LASIK is an outpatient procedure. It is done under local anesthesia in a surgeon's office or a same-day surgery center. The operation on one eye takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The entire process usually takes less than 2 hours. This includes preparation time, care right after the surgery, and paperwork.