The History of LASIK Surgery

LASIK Surgery: A Breakthrough in History

The LASIK movement has seen only growth in its lifespan; a time that has lasted a little over 30 years is available to the public. Being a relatively new invention of the 20^th century, its continued growth and expansion bloomed almost immediately, bringing in throes of people eager to live their life to the fullest. Since then, only improvements have been made.

Early Years

In the 1950’s, the microkeratome and keratomileusis techniques were created in Columbia, in a city named Bogota, by the Spanish ophthalmologist Jose Barraquer. In his clinic at the time, he would cut thin slices of the cornea to alter their shape. He also fronted the initial investigation regarding just how much of the cornea could be cut to achieve optimal results. This research is what led others to believe that LASIK surgery was a possibility at all. His work was succeeded by a Russian Scientist by the name of Svyatoslav Fyodorov, who developed Radial keratotomy, a method of correcting myopia. Since then, all different types of LASIK vision correction have been possible, but the world hadn’t heard about it yet.

In 1980, an inventor at IBM Research by the name of Rangaswamy Srinivason discovered that an ultraviolet excimer laser could etch into living tissue with precision unlike anything else. This discovery was published and from that point on, people began to seek out Lasik surgery to fix their eye problems.

The Patent for LASIK eye surgery was implemented on June 20^th, 1989 and granted to Gholam A. Peyman (US4840175). Since then. Faster lasers, more effective, and less complicating lasers began to be invented. As of 2011, 11 million LASIK procedures were performed in the US., and as of 2009 over 28 million had been performed worldwide.

The Process

The first step of this procedure is to create a flap from the soft tissue on the front of the eye. This flap is created using either a metal blade or a femtosecond laser that creates a small series of tiny bubbles within the cornea.

The second step of the procedure is to use the excimer laser to remodel the corneal stroma. The excimer laser vaporizes the tissue in a controlled manner that does not affect the surrounding stroma.

After the laser has properly remodeled the tissue area of the cornea known as the stromal layer, the LASIK flap is very carefully repositioned by the surgeon, and the flap is checked for air bubbles, debris, and proper fit on the eye. The flap remains in position due to natural adhesion. Once the flap is fully attached to the eye, proper post-operative care should be observed.

The Professionals

Most people would be wary of going to Lasik surgeons without being assured of quality. Dr. Tylock is more than qualified to handle your LASIK needs. With him, you can be confident that your Lasik experience will be one to remember, and for all the right reasons. Give the LASIK Surgery Professional a call today!

Photo courtesy of Steve Jurvestson-Flickr.com