Step 1: After your eye has been numbed with "eye drop" anesthesia, an instrument known as an eyelid speculum will be positioned to hold your eyelids opened. You will remain awake and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Step 2: A small suction ring will be placed around the cornea and serves as a platform for the microkeratome.

Step 3: The microkeratome separates the surface layers of the cornea, and the corneal flap is folded

Lift Corneal Flap

Step 4: You will be asked to look at a target light while the Excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue. A clicking sound can be heard as each microscopic layer of tissue is vaporized. This process will last from seconds to minutes, depending on the amount of correction necessary.

Excimer Laser

Step 5: The corneal flap is then placed back into its original position and allowed to dry for a few minutes.

Replace Corneal Flap

Step 6: You will be given additional eye drops, and your eye may be shielded for protection. Your vision will probably be a little blurry at first so have someone drive you home and relax for the rest of the day.

Step 7: Your eye care team will work closely with you to manage your healing process. Most patients experience dramatic results within hours or days of the procedure, though it may take a few months for your eyes to fully heal.