If you have been considering LASIK eye surgery for a while, there is a good chance you are familiar with the basics of the procedure, like what it is used for and how it works. But there is still so much for you to learn! Read on as Dr. Ernest Kornmehl shares three interesting facts you probably did not know about LASIK.
The Technology Is Used in Astronaut Training
If you’ve ever worried about your eyes moving during the LASIK procedure, this may help put those concerns to rest: The computerized technology used to track eye movement during LASIK is more advanced than you can imagine. It is actually based off of equipment developed for use in space!
The idea for this type of equipment was born out of the need to track astronauts’ eye movements during their time spent in space. Engineers soon realized the potential for tracking a patient’s eyes during surgery and helping the laser beam stay on target without interfering with the surgeon’s work. This equipment is now widely used by laser eye surgeons all over the world.
Works in the Blink of an Eye
From start to finish, you will spend a few hours at our surgery center for your LASIK procedure. There is plenty of time available for pre-operative questions and post-operative monitoring. You will be in the treatment room for approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. But the actual laser correction requires 15 to 45 seconds. Depending on the specific model used, the excimer laser that reshapes your cornea emits hundreds of pulses per second. Patients are often surprised to discover treatment is over in the blink of an eye.
Cool to the Touch
When you think of a laser, you probably imagine the red-hot beams of light we see in science fiction movies that burn through the toughest materials. It is surprising to learn that the laser used to reshape your cornea emits a “cool” beam of ultraviolet light. Since there is no heat involved, the laser won’t burn your eyes or the skin surrounding them.
The excimer laser works by breaking apart collagen molecules; as the bonds separate, the molecules release carbon atoms, which produce an odor somewhat similar to burning hair. Despite any new smells you may experience during surgery, rest assured that there is no burning involved, and your eyes are completely safe in the care of Dr. Kornmehl.
Schedule a LASIK Consultation with Dr. Kornmehl
If you would like to know more about LASIK vision correction, Dr. Kornmehl is happy to personally answer your questions during a one-on-one consultation. Please call or email Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates today to request an appointment to discuss the procedure.