During a LASIK procedure a thin flap is created with a high-precision laser. The corneal tissue is then precisely reshaped with an excimer laser.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery corrects refractive errors, which affect how the eye focuses light. These errors are caused by the shape or structure of the eye rather than disease.
LASIK can be used to correct a range of refractive errors including myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. The LASIK procedure allows us to treat the condition while eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Although it sounds complicated, the surgery is both fast and straightforward. Before the treatment begins, anesthetic eye drops are applied to the eye.
Then, once these drops have taken effect, a femtosecond laser is used to create a thin flap of tissue on the outer layer of the cornea. This is folded back, much like the page of a book, exposing the underlying tissue.
A second laser, called an excimer laser, is then used to reshape the corneal tissue, correcting the refractive error and creating clearer vision. Once this is completed, the thin flap is put back in place, where it acts like a bandage to protect the cornea.
This is a quick and painless procedure, which usually only takes a few seconds per eye to carry out. Patients are generally able to drive and carry out most activities without glasses the day after their surgery.
The procedure has been perfected since it was invented 20 years ago, with 27 million people having undergone LASIK successfully worldwide. It is suitable for patients aged between 20 and 65 with prescriptions that range from -10.00 to +5.00.
Your specialist will confirm the most suitable laser correction procedure after your free laser eye assessment. In general, laser eye surgery is suitable for most people over 20 years of age who have had a stable prescription (glasses or contact lenses) for the last two years.
ASLA treats the corneal surface directly and is ideal for patients with thinner corneas or specific occupational needs. Advanced Surface Laser Ablation is the updated term for PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
Dr John Rawstron
MB ChB, MPH, GDipM (Refract Surg), FRANZCO
Dr Rawstron brings international surgery qualifications and experience to the refractive team. In addition to LASIK, SMILE pro, PRK and lens surgery procedures, he specialises in corneal transplants and cataract surgery as part of Southern Eye Specialist’s broader ophthalmology services.
Dr Elizabeth Conner
MBChB, BMedSci, FRANZCO
Liz Conner is an experienced cornea, cataract and refractive surgeon who joined Southern Eye Specialists Laser in 2022 after completing a fellowship in Pittsburgh. She specialises in a comprehensive range of laser correction procedures, including LASIK, SMILE pro, and PRK. Liz also offers cataract surgery with premium refractive lens options, treatments for keratoconus, and is fellowship trained in paediatric eye problems.
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128 Kilmore Street, Christchurch 8013
