What is lasik?
Corneal flap created and reshaped with an excimer laser to correct refractive error.
What is lasik?
Corneal flap created and reshaped with an excimer laser to correct refractive error.
Also known as
- laser eye surgery
Quick facts
Common reasons people choose this procedure
Approaches and motivations vary by surgeon and patient anatomy. Compare techniques and real outcomes on the main LASIK page.
Alternatives
PRK
No flap created. Better for thinner corneas, contact athletes, and military careers. Slower recovery (1–2 weeks of blurry vision).
SMILE / ReLex SMILE
Femtosecond laser creates a small lenticule extracted through a tiny incision. Less dry eye than LASIK; some surgeons consider it the new standard for myopia.
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
Lens implanted behind the iris. Reversible; ideal for high myopia or thin corneas where LASIK isn't safe.
Glasses or contacts
Free of surgical risk. For patients with risk factors (thin cornea, dry eye), this is often the right answer.