How does refractive surgery improve vision?
The cornea is the clear covering on the front of the eye which bends, or refracts, light rays that focus on the retina in the back of the eye. A certain shape, or curvature, is required in order for light to focus exactly on the retina rather than in front of it or behind it. Corneal curvature may be surgically corrected using LASIK, LASEK or other refractive procedures to reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. A thorough eye examination and consultation are necessary before a treatment decision can be made.