What Is LASIK? Types of LASIK and Which One Is Best for You?
If you are tired of wearing specs or contact lenses, you may have heard about LASIK eye surgery. LASIK is one of the most commonly performed laser vision-correction procedures used to reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
But LASIK is not just one single procedure. There are different types of laser vision correction, and the right option depends on factors such as your eye power, corneal thickness, eye health, age, and lifestyle.
In this guide, let’s understand what LASIK is, the different types of LASIK, and how to determine which LASIK procedure may be suitable for you.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a laser eye surgery used to correct common refractive errors such as:
Myopia (short-sightedness)
Hyperopia (long-sightedness)
Astigmatism
During LASIK, a surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea. A laser is then used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue so that light entering the eye focuses more accurately on the retina.
The corneal flap is then placed back into position and generally heals naturally.
The main goal of LASIK is to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
How Does LASIK Work?
LASIK is generally performed in a few key steps:
1. Eye Evaluation
Before surgery, your eyes are thoroughly examined. Your doctor may assess your eye power, corneal thickness, corneal shape, tear film and overall eye health.
2. Creating the Corneal Flap
A thin flap is created on the cornea using a specialised laser.
3. Reshaping the Cornea
A laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue according to your individual eye measurements.
4. Repositioning the Flap
After the correction is completed, the flap is repositioned over the treated area.
Because there are no stitches required for the LASIK flap, the eye can begin its natural healing process.
What Are the Different Types of LASIK?
Today, there are several laser vision-correction techniques. The terminology can sometimes be confusing because hospitals may use different names for similar technologies.
Some commonly discussed procedures include:
1. Conventional LASIK
Conventional LASIK uses measurements of your refractive error to guide the laser treatment.
It can be used for suitable candidates with common refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
However, modern laser procedures can provide more personalised treatment based on detailed measurements of the patient's eyes.
2. Wavefront-Guided LASIK
Wavefront-guided LASIK uses detailed measurements of how light travels through the eye.
These measurements can identify certain optical imperfections beyond the basic spectacle power. The laser treatment can then be customised according to the individual's eye.
This approach may be considered when personalised correction is appropriate.
3. Wavefront-Optimized LASIK
Wavefront-optimized LASIK is designed to maintain the natural curvature of the cornea while correcting the patient's refractive error.
The treatment is customised based on the patient's prescription and other measurements.
4. Topography-Guided LASIK
Topography-guided LASIK uses detailed mapping of the corneal surface to customise the laser treatment.
This can be particularly useful when the corneal shape needs to be carefully considered during treatment.
The suitability of this procedure depends on the individual's eye examination.
5. Femto LASIK
Femto LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap instead of using a mechanical blade.
The remaining laser correction is then performed to reshape the cornea.
Because the flap creation and corneal reshaping involve different laser technologies, Femto LASIK is often discussed separately from conventional LASIK.
Is LASIK the Same for Everyone?
No.
There is no single LASIK procedure that is automatically the best for every patient.
Two people with the same spectacle power may have completely different corneal thickness, corneal shape, tear-film condition or other eye characteristics.
That is why a detailed pre-LASIK evaluation is important before deciding on a procedure.
Which LASIK Is Best?
Instead of asking “Which LASIK is the best?”, it is more useful to ask:
“Which laser vision-correction procedure is suitable for my eyes?”
The answer depends on several factors, including:
Your spectacle power
Corneal thickness
Corneal shape and topography
Eye dryness
Age
Overall eye health
Lifestyle and visual requirements
Previous eye conditions or surgeries
For some patients, LASIK may be suitable. For others, a different laser vision-correction procedure may be considered.
In certain cases where LASIK is not appropriate, procedures such as PRK, SMILE or ICL may be discussed by the eye specialist depending on the patient's condition.
Is LASIK Suitable for Everyone?
No. LASIK is not suitable for everyone.
Your eye specialist may recommend against LASIK or suggest another procedure if you have certain conditions such as:
An unstable eye power
Certain corneal abnormalities
Insufficient corneal thickness
Certain eye diseases
Severe or uncontrolled dry eye
Certain medical conditions
A proper eye evaluation is therefore essential before deciding on surgery.
What Tests Are Done Before LASIK?
A comprehensive evaluation may include tests to assess:
Refraction and eye power
Corneal thickness
Corneal curvature and topography
Tear film and dry-eye status
Overall eye health
These tests help the surgeon determine whether laser vision correction is appropriate and which procedure may be considered.
LASIK vs Other Vision Correction Procedures
LASIK is not the only option for reducing dependence on glasses.
Depending on your eyes, your doctor may discuss procedures such as:
LASIK: Uses a corneal flap followed by laser reshaping.
PRK: Reshapes the cornea without creating the same type of LASIK flap.
SMILE: Uses a small incision and a femtosecond laser to remove a small piece of corneal tissue.
ICL: Places a specialised lens inside the eye and may be considered for certain patients who are not suitable candidates for corneal laser procedures.
The choice should be based on your individual eye examination rather than simply choosing the procedure with the most popular name.
Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK
How long does LASIK take?
The actual laser treatment is generally very quick, although the complete hospital visit includes preparation, examination and post-procedure checks.
Is LASIK painful?
LASIK is generally performed using numbing eye drops, so significant pain during the procedure is not usually expected. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort, watering or a gritty sensation after surgery.
Can LASIK permanently remove glasses?
LASIK can significantly reduce dependence on glasses for many suitable candidates, but results vary from person to person. Age-related changes in vision can also occur later in life.
What age is suitable for LASIK?
LASIK is generally considered for adults whose eye power has remained stable. Your eye specialist can determine whether you are an appropriate candidate.
Can people with high eye power undergo LASIK?
It depends on the individual. The amount of power is only one part of the evaluation. Corneal thickness, shape and overall eye health also matter. Some people with higher powers may be considered for alternatives such as ICL rather than LASIK.
Final Thoughts
LASIK can be an effective option for reducing dependence on glasses and contact lenses, but “best LASIK” does not mean the same procedure for everyone.
The right treatment depends on your individual eyes, measurements and visual requirements. A detailed eye examination with a qualified ophthalmologist can help determine whether LASIK is suitable for you and which vision-correction option may be appropriate.
Thinking about getting rid of your specs? Start with a comprehensive eye evaluation and understand which procedure is suitable for your eyes.
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