LASIK Glossary of Terms
CLEARLY LASIK laser eye surgery centers emphasize technology, experience, and safety. With locations throughout North America, laser eye surgery patients can be confident in the level of care we provide. To learn more about laser eye surgery, please review the terms below.
Ablation
Surgical removal. In vision correction surgery, ablation refers to the removal of corneal tissue to correct a refractive error like nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Accommodation
Ability of the eye to change focus while looking at objects at varying distances.
Astigmatism
Condition in which one of the eyes’ refractive surfaces has an irregular shape (not spherical), causing visual distortion.
CK (Conductive Keratoplasty)
Refractive surgery procedure that reshapes the cornea using radio waves. CK is used to treat hyperopia and presbyopia.
Cornea
Transparent outer covering of the eye that allows light to enter and helps the eye focus.
Excimer laser
Surgical equipment that produces a thin, powerful beam of ultraviolet light. An excimer laser is used to remove microscopic layers of tissue from the cornea to enhance vision.
Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
Visual defect that causes difficulty viewing near objects, while distant objects are easily focused on.
Higher-order Aberration
Visual imperfections other than refractive errors (farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism).
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis)
Vision correction procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea’s inner layers. LASEK laser eye surgery may be appropriate for individuals who are not candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis)
Vision correction procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea’s inner layers, improving nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and other visual imperfections.
Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Visual defect that causes blurred distance vision.
Pachymetry
Procedure used to measure the thickness of the cornea.
Presbyopia
Condition that causes difficulty focusing on near objects due to a lack of elasticity in the eye’s cornea and lens associated with aging.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
Vision correction procedure that uses a laser to reshape the surface of the cornea, improving nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Topography
Procedure used to map the surface of the cornea.
Contact CLEARLY LASIK
With locations throughout Canada and the United States, CLEARLY LASIK helps laser eye surgery patients experience top-quality medical care with superior results. Contact one of our conveniently located centers today to learn more about laser eye surgery or to schedule a consultation with a doctor in your area.