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Lasik
The name Lasik is short for Laser Assisted in situ Keratomileusis.
Lasik reshapes the cornea correcting myopia, hyperopia, myopia
with astigmatism and hyperopia with astigmatism. Using an automated
instrument called a microkeratome, the doctor creates a protective
flap of corneal tissue. This flap remains attached on one side,
as the excimer laser reshapes this newly exposed layer of cornea.
Once the surface of the cornea has been treated by the exact amount
necessary, which takes less than a minute, the doctor returns
the flap to it's original position. Therefore, the shape of the
cornea is corrected under the surface.
To treat nearsightedness, the cornea must be made flatter. This
is accomplished by removing tissue from center of the cornea.
To treat farsigtedness, the central cornea must be made steeper.
This is accomplished by directing the laser beam to remove tissue
from around this area.
To treat astigmatism, the cornea must be made more spherical
or round. By changing the pattern of the beam, tissue is removed
in one direction more than the other.
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