The procedure takes approximately 10 minutes per eye to perform. The only anesthetic need is a topical eye drop which is used to numb the surface of the eye. Once the eye is numbed, an eyelid speculum is inserted into the eye to hold your eyelids open. You are awake and comfortable throughout the entire procedure. A small suction ring is then placed on the eye. This suction ring allows for the placement of the microkeratome. The microkeratome is the instrument the is used to separate the surface layers of the cornea, creating a protective flap, that is then folded back so that the laser can be performed. Once the flap is folded back you will be asked to look at a target light while the Eximer laser reshapes the corneal curvature. The whole time under the laser will last from seconds to minutes depending on the amount of correction necessary. The corneal flap is then placed back into its original position and allowed to dry for a few minutes. Immediately after the procedure you will notice an improvement in you vision, however it will appear foggy. You will be sent home with additional eye drops and an eye shield for protection. The next day you vision will be between 70 and 100% clear. Results vary from patient to patient. Full visual results are usually realized within one to four weeks.