LASIK surgery has transformed the lives of more than 40 million people worldwide since it received FDA approval in the 1990s. It uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye — correcting the refractive error that causes blurry vision. The result is clear, natural vision without the daily dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

What LASIK Corrects

LASIK is approved to treat three primary refractive conditions:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness) — The laser flattens the cornea to reduce its focusing power, bringing distant objects into focus
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness) — The laser steepens the central cornea to increase its focusing power, improving near vision
  • Astigmatism — Irregular corneal curvature is smoothed and normalized, resolving blurry or distorted vision at all distances

Types of LASIK

  • Standard LASIK — Uses wavefront-optimized treatment to correct the prescription while preserving the natural corneal shape as much as possible
  • Custom/Wavefront-guided LASIK — Uses a detailed wavefront map of your eye's unique optical imperfections (higher-order aberrations) to create a more personalized treatment. Associated with a higher rate of 20/20 or better vision and improved quality of vision, particularly in low light
  • All-laser (bladeless) LASIK — Uses a femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap instead of a microkeratome blade; the current standard of care for most surgeons

Results and Long-Term Outcomes

In clinical studies, approximately 96% of LASIK patients achieve 20/20 or better vision. Over 99% achieve 20/40 or better (the legal driving standard). Patient satisfaction rates consistently exceed 95% in independent surveys. The correction is generally permanent, though age-related changes such as presbyopia will develop independently in middle age.

Our office provides pre-operative candidacy evaluation and comprehensive post-operative management for all LASIK patients, working in coordination with trusted surgical centers. Contact us to find out if LASIK is right for you.