LASIK corrects refractive error by reshaping the cornea's stroma under a thin corneal flap. Modern techniques often use femtosecond lasers for flap creation and excimer lasers for tissue removal. Recovery is rapid for most patients, but candidacy screening and awareness of risks remain essential. Historical development traces to mid-20th century corneal surgery and late-1980s refinements that popularized LASIK in the 1990s.

What LASIK does

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) reshapes the cornea so the eye focuses light more accurately on the retina. Surgeons change the curvature of the cornea's stroma - the thick, middle layer - to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Many patients seek LASIK to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

How the procedure works today

Surgeons numb the eye with topical anesthetic drops. They create a thin flap in the cornea, fold it back to expose the stroma, and use an excimer laser to remove precise amounts of tissue. After the laser reshapes the cornea, the surgeon repositions the flap and it adheres naturally without stitches. The in-clinic part of the laser treatment typically takes minutes per eye; the entire visit is longer.

Modern practice often uses a femtosecond laser to create the flap (a "bladeless" or all-laser LASIK) instead of a mechanical microkeratome. These lasers give surgeons more control over flap thickness and position and have become common in many clinics.

Recovery and outcomes

Most patients report little or no pain during the procedure and mild discomfort afterward. Vision may improve within hours, but stabilization commonly takes days to weeks. Many people achieve 20/20 vision or better; others may still need glasses for certain activities. Enhancements (touch-up treatments) are possible if the desired correction is not reached.

Common short-term side effects include dry eye and glare or halos around lights. Serious complications are uncommon but can include flap problems, infection, or permanent loss of best-corrected vision. Patient selection, up-to-date technology, and experienced surgeons lower risks.

Brief history

Work to reshape the cornea surgically began in the mid-20th century. José I. Barraquer developed early keratomileusis techniques in the 1940s-1960s, and other surgeons refined corneal surgery techniques in subsequent decades. Modern LASIK was developed by surgeons including Lucio Buratto and Ioannis Pallikaris in the late 1980s; the procedure spread worldwide in the 1990s.

Since then, alternatives such as photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) have become available and suit different corneal shapes and patient needs.1

Is LASIK right for you?

A comprehensive eye exam, corneal mapping, and a discussion of lifestyle needs and medical history determine candidacy. People with unstable prescriptions, thin corneas, certain autoimmune conditions, or unrealistic expectations may be advised against LASIK. Talk with a board-certified ophthalmologist to weigh benefits and risks.
  1. Confirm the specific year and location of the first LASIK procedures and the primary developers (Lucio Buratto, Ioannis Pallikaris) and update the text if needed.
  2. Verify global and U.S. adoption timeline for LASIK in the 1990s and the number of procedures performed to date if cited.
  3. Confirm dates and regulatory approvals for SMILE and major milestones for femtosecond and excimer laser adoption.

FAQs about Eye Surgery

How long does LASIK take and when will I see better vision?
The laser portion usually takes minutes per eye. Many patients notice clearer vision within hours, though it can take days to weeks for vision to stabilize fully.
Is LASIK painful?
Most people have little or no pain during the procedure because of numbing drops. Mild discomfort, gritty sensations, or light sensitivity can occur for a few days after surgery.
What are common side effects?
Short-term side effects include dry eye, glare, halos, and fluctuating vision. Serious complications are rare but can include flap issues, infection, or under/overcorrection.
Can everyone get LASIK?
Not everyone. Candidates need stable prescriptions, sufficient corneal thickness, and no disqualifying medical conditions. A comprehensive preoperative exam determines eligibility.
Are there alternatives to LASIK?
Yes. PRK and SMILE are two common alternatives; each has different healing profiles and may suit different corneal anatomies or lifestyle needs.

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