Medical FAQ

Medical FAQ » LASIK
Q What is LASIK?
Q What type of doctor performs LASIK eye surgery?
Q Who needs LASIK vision correction?
Q Are there any professional organizations for LASIK eye surgeons?
Q Where can I find a LASIK eye surgeon in my area?

Q What is LASIK?
A LASIK (Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis) is an FDA-approved, surgical procedure used to correct human vision.  It can effectively repair nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism in a few quick steps.  The technical procedure starts with a microkeratome that creates a thin flap in the cornea.  Next, this tiny flap is folded back, and the excimer laser resurfaces the cornea in order to correct the given problem.  Finally, the corneal flap is replaced, and it will re-adhere in about two to three minutes. 
   
Q What type of doctor performs LASIK eye surgery?
A Only ophthalmologists (eye doctors) are allowed to perform Lasik eye surgery, and the more experience the doctor has, the better.  Always make sure your ophthalmologist is using lasers that are FDA approved, and make sure you know who is going to handle after-surgery care.
   
Q Who needs LASIK vision correction?
A Anyone who is nearsighted, farsighted, or has astigmatism can benefit from Lasik vision correction.  Potential patients must have no systematic diseases or eye diseases, must have a stable prescription, must have healthy eyes, and must be at least 18 years old (sometimes 21 for patients with astigmatism).