We Believe That A Well-Informed Patient Is Key To Successful Vision Correction Surgery.
LASIK
A GUIDE TO LASER VISION CORRECTION
Dr. Robert Maloney believes that a well-informed patient is key to successful vision correction surgery. He wants to be sure that you fully understand what you can expect from your procedure you choose. He wants to help you care for and preserve your eyesight in the best way possible. Here, you can find the information that you need to help you make informed choices about health care for your eyes.
LASER VISION CORRECTION: AN OVERVIEW
LASIK
In 1990, researchers conceived of ways to avoid these side effects associated with PRK; they developed a new procedure called LASIK, a type of refractive surgery, in which a laser is used to reshape the cornea, improving vision. LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ kerato mileusis. The component words of LASIK are defined as:
LASer-assisted-performed with the excimer laser.
In situ-the laser sculpting is performed on the cornea after a flap of corneal tissue has been lifted.
Keratomileusis-a process of carving the cornea to reshape it.
During a LASIK procedure, the outermost layers of the cornea are peeled back, using a thin blade or laser called a microkeratome. This creates an extremely thin flap, which, like a hinged lid, is gently lifted back, exposing the corneal tissue beneath. The cornea is then precisely sculpted by the excimer laser into a new shape to correct the vision. The flap is set back in place. The flap is held in position by the eye's natural suction.
Clinical trials on LASIK began in the United States in 1991. A broad series of clinical investigations culminated in its approval by the FDA in 1999.
