LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery that uses lasers to correct vision problems caused by refractive errors. Refractive errors occur when the eye does not refract (bend) light correctly, causing blurred vision. During LASIK surgery, a special type of cutting laser is used to change the shape of the cornea, which is the dome-shaped clear tissue at the front of the eye. The goal of LASIK is to correct the refractive error and improve vision, reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The LASIK procedure involves creating a partial-thickness corneal flap and using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The surgery is usually completed in 30 minutes or less and is done in an outpatient surgery center or ophthalmologists office. Before the procedure, numbing drops are placed in the eye, and the patient may be given medicine to help them relax. During the procedure, the patient lies on their back in a reclining chair, and an instrument is used to hold their eyelids open. A suction ring is placed on the eye just before cutting the corneal flap.

LASIK surgery is not suitable for everyone, and a thorough eye examination is necessary to determine if a person is a candidate for the procedure. The surgery is typically not covered by insurance and is an elective procedure.