A laser is a concentrated beam of light energy created when an electric current passes through special material. There are several different ways that lasers can be used to treat eye conditions. Thermal lasers convert the light to heat when it reaches the eye.
Photodisruptive lasers use the light to cut or sculpt tissue.
This sculpting beam can be used inside the eye to cut thin membranes that are blocking vision. Photoablative lasers can be used to change the shape of the surface of the cornea to correct nearsightedness , farsightedness , and astigmation . Laser surgery of the eye gives the surgeon great precision and control, lowering the risk of infection and reducing the damage to other tissues. Laser surgery can be performed in an outpatient setting, without an overnight stay in the hospital. Conditions That Can Be Treated Using Lasers Lasers can be used to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness , farsightedness , and astigmation .