LASIK Glossary

Ablation surgical removal.
Ablation zone area of tissue removed during laser vision correction surgery. The ablation zone can vary in LASIK surgery.
Accommodation the ability of the eye to change its focus from distant objects to near objects. LASIK does not affect accommodation
Acuity clarity or sharpness of vision. LASIK can typically achieve good acuity.
Astigmatism distortion of the image on the retina usually caused by irregularities in the cornea. LASIK can correct astigmatism
Cornea the clear front part of your eye. The cornea is the first part of the eye that bends (or focuses) the light and provides most of the focusing power. During LASIK, a flap is made in the cornea
Diopter is the measurement of refractive error. When used in excimer refractive surgery, diopter is a measurement of the refractive power of the eye. In LASIK and other refractive procedures, a negative diopter value signifies an eye with myopia and positive diopter value signifies an eye with hyperopia.
Dry Eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the eye wet and comfortable. Common symptoms of dry eye include feelings of stinging, burning, or scratchiness of the eyes.
Endothelium is the inner layer of cells on the inside surface of the cornea.
Epithelium is the outermost layer of cells of the cornea and is the eye’s first defense against infection.
Excimer laser is an ultraviolet laser used in laser vision correction surgery to remove corneal tissue.
Farsightedness is the common term for hyperopia. Farsightedness is now correctable with LASIK.
FDA is the abbreviation for the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA is the United States government agency responsible for the evaluation and approval of medical devices. FDA approved LASIK surgery.
Flap & Zap is a slang term for LASIK.
Ghost Image is a fainter second image of the object you are viewing.