Most people are likely familiar with the term "LASIK," understanding it to be a form of eye surgery; however, many may not know what the acronym stands for, exactly what type of eye surgery it is, which techniques it involves, if this procedure is right for them, and how to find a clinic.

LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, which actually translates to (and involves) reshaping the inside of the cornea-the clear "dome" that covers the eyeball-using a laser. Ophthalmologists, who are medical specialists and surgeons specifically trained to perform eye operations, perform this form of refractive laser eye surgery on individuals to treat a number of different eye-related medical conditions-astigmatism (when an irregularly shaped cornea affects the vision), myopia ("near-sightedness"), and hyperopia ("far-sightedness")-as well as to provide an alternative to wearing corrective eye glasses or contact lenses.

But what does LASIK actually do? Basically, this surgery involves intricate procedures that change the cornea's shape permanently, allowing it to better and much more accurately refocus light rays on the retina, thus enhancing and improving overall vision in the afflicted eye (or eyes). A highly specialized device, called the excimer laser, is used for reshaping the cornea. Other devices commonly used include the microkeratome (a special knife that cuts a flap into the cornea) and a hinge, which is left at one end of the flap. Specific techniques and procedures can vary, depending on the surgery services and the particular surgeon performing the operation.

Not sure if you need or qualify for LASIK? Houston, Texas offers guidance through its private practices, clinics, and surgeons to help you determine whether or not this type of eye surgery is right for you. Not everyone with eye troubles needs or should undergo this intricate surgical procedure, but if you are near-sighted, far-sighted, have astigmatism, or would like to once-and-for-all get rid of your glasses or contact lenses, then LASIK is probably a good fit for you.

Whatever your eye troubles or problems, if you are considering the surgery, Houston is home to a number of public and private practices either offering or dedicated to providing laser vision-correction services. While there are a number of LASIK Houston options for you, consider seeking out the services of a private practice or clinic that is dedicated to this surgery and other laser vision-correction procedures and operations. This means that the medical specialists who work there specialize in eye-correction surgeries, including LASIK-or, better yet, they may specialize in practicing the surgery only. In this way, you can be assured you are receiving top-quality care from surgeons who not only know what they're doing, but are highly trained, skilled, and experienced in LASIK surgery.

Besides specialization in this surgery, there are other factors to consider when choosing a LASIK Houston clinic or a specific Houston surgeon. You'll want to find out what kind of equipment they use, what type of specific procedures and techniques they use, how long they've been in business, as well as the costs involved.

Ideally, you'll want to choose to have the procedure done where they use only the latest, high-end, most technologically sophisticated diagnostic equipment, which helps surgeons to determine exactly how to reshape the cornea and how much of the cornea actually needs reshaping. Further, it's best if you select a surgeon or surgery clinic in Houston that utilizes the best and latest technology to improve upon techniques and procedures for the actual operation. The latest technology available for this type of eye surgery is the highly advanced WaveLight Allegretto Excimer Laser System, officially named the "ALLEGRETTO WAVE Eye-Q Laser System."

A good laser eye-surgery clinic will also work to match each patient with the right technique or procedure for LASIK surgery, since every patient has different needs. This individualization ensures that every patient receives the proper attention and care and receives the best possible outcome after the operation. Finally, make sure to check out how long a clinic has been in business, the qualifications of the surgeons, and how much the surgery is going to cost you.

Not sure how to find the right (or the best) LASIK Houston services or surgeon? Check around locally in Houston, whether you live right in the city or close by, or head online to find out what's available, and then research and compare each option thoroughly before making your decision so you can be sure you'll be receiving the best Houston care possible for your vision correction.