LASIK Statistics

1975:

First excimer laser is produced. It is known for its precision and was used by IBM to etch circuits into computer chips.

1983:

Scientists explore use of excimer laser on corneal tissue. It was discovered that the excimer laser could remove corneal tissue without affecting the area outside of the target zone.

1985:

German ophthalmologist uses excimer laser for first time on human eyes.

1988:

U.S. surgeon uses excimer laser to correct refractive error on a normal sighted eye during FDA clinical trials.

1990:

An Italian ophthalmologist combines the microkeratome and the excimer laser to create LASIK vision correction. He used a microkeratome to create a flap of corneal tissue and the laser to reshape the tissue of an inner layer of the cornea.

1991:

First LASIK vision correction performed on a sighted eye for FDA clinical trials.

1995:

FDA approves first excimer laser for PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy).

1999:

FDA approves first excimer laser for LASIK (Laser-In-Situ Keratomileusis) vision correction.

1999:

One million LASIK vision correction procedures completed in the United States. FDA approved first “flying spot” laser.

2001:

LASIK vision correction is the most common elective surgical procedure in the United States.

2002:

FDA approves first customized wavefront-guided LASIK vision correction application.

2003:

CustomLASIK becomes widely available in the United States.