1. The Excimer Laser By Aprile Small

2. What is it? The excimer laser is a computer-controlled ultraviolet beam of light used to correct nearsightedness. Each pulse can cut 39 millionths of an inch of tissue in 12 billionths of a second.

3. How is it used? Before surgery, a map is constructed of the eye. The required changed is then calculated and entered into the computer. A physician cuts a flap of tissue from the cornea. The laser is then used to remove specific areas of tissue from beneath the cornea, improving the patient’s eyesight.

4. Success Rate Studies show a 95% success rate for corrective eyesight surgeries. Only 5% of patients still require glasses for distance, such as when driving.

5. Photos Courtesy of: Tyson, Jeff. “How Lasik Works.” 14 June 2005 http://health.howstuffworks.com/lasik4.htm