Creating the Corneal Flap

LASIK is a two step procedure. In the first step, an instrument called a microkeratome lifts a thin surface layer of the cornea away from underlying layers in a process known as making a corneal flap.

Flap creation begins with the instillation of anesthetic eye drops. A suction ring is then centered around the cornea and a vacuum is generated to hold the ring on the eye. During the few seconds the vacuum is on, the vision grows dim and a mild pressure sensation is felt.

The microkeratome is then attached to the suction ring and passed across the surface of the cornea to create the flap.