He wasn't disappointed. The procedure uses a laser to correct severe nearsightedness. The relatively new procedure, a cousin of the better-known radial keratotomy, uses a laser to reshape the internal cornea. A misshapen cornea causes nearsightedness. During the surgery, the patient is wide awake.
Anesthetic drops numb the eye, and an optional mild tranquilizer eases anxiety.
The doctor turns back the flap, aims the laser and within a few seconds to a minute or so, the surgery is done. The flap is laid back down against the eye, and the patient goes home to rest. But I'm glad I only have two eyes. You're just ready for it to be over after the second one. By the next day, most people notice dramatic improvement, said Dr. Stratas, one of several Surgeons in town who perform the procedure.