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Lasik eye surgery

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.

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Review Date: 8/31/2010
Reviewed By: Daniel E. Bustos, MD, MS, Private Practice specializing in Comprehensive Ophthalmology in Eugene, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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