In this surgery, a thin corneal flap is cut with a motorized blade or another laser (Femto-LASIK / FLASIK).  The flap is lifted, and the laser ablation is done on the exposed deeper corneal tissue.  The flap is then closed.  As the epithelium (outermost layer of the cornea) is not removed, the procedure is largely painless, and any post-operative pain is minimal or negligible.  

In a very small number of cases, one can get flap complications.  The tissue is cut deeper than other procedures, and therefore there is a 0.05% risk of ectasia (thinning with change in corneal shape) after this procedure. 

Patients between the ages of 18 and 99 should qualify for corneal refractive surgery because there are only a few contraindications for this type of procedure. 

If you are considering refractive surgery you should consult a Refractive Surgeon. Only a Refractive Surgeon can decide whether refractive surgery is possible or not and determine the risks involved for you as an individual. 

Most patients report feeling little to no pain during LASIK eye surgery. Before the procedure, numbing eye drops are applied to the eye to prevent any discomfort during the surgery. During the surgery, patients may feel a slight pressure or discomfort, but it is usually not painful. 

After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort or mild pain, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and typically resolves within a few days. 

It is important to discuss any concerns about pain or discomfort with your doctor prior to undergoing LASIK surgery.

Yes, LASIK eye surgery can correct astigmatism, which is a common refractive error that can cause blurred vision. During LASIK surgery, a laser is used to reshape the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye, to correct the refractive error and improve vision. The laser can be programmed to address both the nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, as well as other vision issues such as presbyopia. 

However, not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK surgery, so it's important to consult with an eye doctor to determine if it's the right option for you.