Currently the technique that is most often used is LASIK due to its precision and safety. The operation is also painless and patients recover their vision very quickly.
Using a special instrument called a microkeratome a small and superficial cut is made across the cornea which allows a very thin layer of between 130 to 160 microns to be lifted up. This layer is still attached on one side forming a flap with a “hinge” on one side. This exposes the stroma so that the laser can be used to change the cornea’s curvature. After using the laser the flap is replaced and heals naturally. Patients experience some slight discomfort for about four hours, but can then begin to return to their normal lives.
