Why is corneal thickness important when laser vision correction is being considered?
When lasik is being performed, a corneal flap is first created. After the flap is lifted out of the way, much like opening the cover of a book, the underlying corneal tissue is exposed. The laser then precisely removes the amount of tissue necessary to correct your prescription. The corneal flap is then replaced, much like closing the cover of a book. Surgeons who perform lasik want to make sure that the strength of the cornea is not weakened too much after the lasik procedure. This means making sure there is enough corneal tissue left after the laser treatment is finished.