LASIK /lā′sik/ , acronym for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, a refractive surgery on the cornea in which the excimer laser and microkeratome are combined for correction of distance vision. The microkeratome is used to shave a thin slice and create a hinged flap in the cornea, the flap is reflected back, the exposed cornea is reshaped by the laser, and the flap is replaced, without sutures, to heal back into position. Preoperatively, a topical antibiotic and topical anesthesia are instilled into the eye. Postoperatively, the patient receives antibiotic drops and antiinflammatory drops and wears goggles for 24 hours to prevent slippage.
