If there is a megatrend in ophthalmology, this is it. Kelley estimates that more than 1 million people will have the surgery done in 2000. Pressure is used to keep the eye taut as the cornea is cut and left attached on one side, like a hinged contact lens.
Healing begins as soon as the flap is replaced.
The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes and causes little or no discomfort. Now for the risks. Around 1 percent of patients have some loss of vision that lasts beyond a month or two, he says. As with any surgery, there are risks of infection and surgical error. The corneal flap can end up wrinkled or off-center when it is replaced, interfering with vision.