Definition of LASIK: The Terminology Broken Down

LASIK Explained in Detail

LASIK surgery has become a popular procedure, but many are still not sure of the definition of LASIK. Even for people with a rudimentary understanding of LASIK, many of the terms used in conjunction with the procedure can seem foreign and confusing. Here, Dr. Gary Tylock, a Dallas LASIK surgeon, breaks down the terminology, in order to give a clear definition of LASIK.

A good starting point for the definition of LASIK is to define what the term stands for. An acronym for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, LASIK eye surgery involves creating a flap, to expose the inner layers of the cornea. Once this flap is created, the doctor uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct vision and then puts the flap back, where it holds itself in place as it heals. The LASIK procedure is fast, lasting only about ten; it requires no stitches, and it is virtually painless.

Once you’ve answered the question “what is LASIK surgery”, you might be ready to go a little deeper. There are several different types of laser eye correction procedures, including IntraLASIK, Bladeless LASIK, Custom LASIK, and flap-less laser vision correction.  IntraLASIK and Bladeless LASIK are the same thing, and involve using a laser to create the flap, instead of the small blade, called a microkeratome, used in traditional LASIK. In flap-less laser vision correction (PRK), the surgeon removes the epithelium instead of creating a flap, and reaches a much more superficial layer of the cornea. This is usually recommended for people who already have a very thin cornea. Custom LASIK is also known as Wavefront LASIK and is very similar to traditional LASIK. The difference is that the Custom LASIK procedure uses technology that gives it the ability to correct vision to a higher standard. The Tylock-George Eye Care and laser center combine IntraLASIK or Bladeless LASIK with Custom LASIK, to give their patients Custom IntraLASIK, the safest most advanced form of the procedure.

Now that you have a better sense of the definition of LASIK, you may wonder if it is right for you. In the Dallas area, there is no better place to answer that question than at the Tylock-George Eye Care and Laser Center. Founded by Dr. Gary Tylock, a pioneer in the field of laser vision correction, the Tylock Center features a dedicated staff, excellence in patient care, and state of the art technology. Visit the website to learn more, or connect with the online community on Facebook and Twitter.