The surgeon uses a special surgical instrument called a microkeratome to create a small flap in the cornea. The flap is folded back, and pulses of cool light from an eximer laser precisely re-shape the inner corneal layer to within 39 millionths of an inch. The flap is then replaced, and the eyes are covered with patches for 24 hours. The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes. Most people experience only minor discomfort the first few hours after surgery, and can often drive the next day.
Full healing takes a few months, and there is some eye dryness for a few weeks.
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed for about a week. No showering for 24 hours, and no makeup for at least a week after surgery. TV and reading should be moderate. Exercise is prohibited for one week and contact sports for one month. Patients need to understand every facet of this procedure and most of all insist on thorough post-op exams by the surgeon who performed their operation.