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What Is Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)?

LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses in the eye. It is commonly used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. A surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea, reshapes the underlying tissue with a laser, then lays the flap back down. Many people notice clearer vision within a day or two, but healing continues over weeks. Not everyone is a good candidate, so screening tests are an important part of the process.

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What Is Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)?

LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses in the eye. It is commonly used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. A surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea, reshapes the underlying tissue with a laser, then lays the flap back down. Many people notice clearer vision within a day or two, but healing continues over weeks. Not everyone is a good candidate, so screening tests are an important part of the process.

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How LASIK Works

First, the surgeon makes a very thin flap in the cornea using a laser or a precise blade. The flap is lifted so the laser can reshape the cornea underneath based on your prescription. The flap is then placed back, where it naturally adheres as the surface heals. The reshaping changes how light bends so images focus more accurately on the retina. The procedure is quick, but the pre-op measurements are what make it precise.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Good candidates usually have a stable glasses or contact lens prescription and healthy corneas. Screening checks corneal thickness, shape, tear quality, and overall eye health. People with severe dry eye, certain corneal conditions, or unstable prescriptions may be better suited to other options. Your lifestyle matters too, especially if you play contact sports or have job-related vision needs. A consultation helps match the procedure to your eyes, not just your prescription.

What Recovery Looks Like

Most people rest the day of surgery and use prescribed drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Vision often improves quickly, but dryness and glare can be more noticeable at first. Avoid rubbing your eyes and follow the schedule for drops and follow-up visits. Many return to desk work within a couple of days, but swimming and eye makeup are usually delayed. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to drive and resume full activity.

Risks and Side Effects to Know

Common side effects include temporary dry eye, halos, or glare at night, especially early on. Less common risks include flap issues, infection, undercorrection, overcorrection, or vision quality changes. Some people still need glasses for certain tasks, especially reading as they get older. An enhancement procedure is sometimes needed if the result shifts or the correction is not complete. Careful screening and good aftercare lower risk and improve the chance of a good outcome.

FAQs on LASIK

Does LASIK hurt?

Most people feel pressure during the procedure rather than pain because numbing drops are used. You may have burning or watering for a few hours afterward. Discomfort usually improves quickly with rest and drops.

How long do LASIK results last?

LASIK results are long-lasting for many people, but your eyes can still change with age. Presbyopia, the normal loss of near focus, can still happen even after LASIK. Some people need reading glasses later on.

Can I get LASIK if I have dry eyes?

It depends on how dry your eyes are and what is causing it. Dry eye is common after LASIK for a period of time, so significant dryness may need treatment first. Your surgeon may suggest other options if dryness is severe.

What is the difference between LASIK and PRK?

LASIK keeps a corneal flap, while PRK removes the surface layer and lets it grow back. PRK can be a better fit for some people with thinner corneas or certain risks. Your surgeon can explain which option suits your eyes.

References

LASIK — Laser Eye Surgery. American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik. January 9, 2026.

What is LASIK? U.S. Food & Drug Administration (USFDA). https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/what-lasik. n.d.

Refractive Errors. National Eye Institute. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/refractive-errors. Updated December 19, 2025.

What Is Refractive Surgery? American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/what-is-refractive-surgery. February 24, 2023.

LASIK eye surgery. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774. July 16, 2025.