What does "LASIK" mean?
-
LasikPlus Vision Center
8280 Greensboro Drive, Suite 110
McLean, VA 22102
(866) 724-6033
Learn More -
LasikPlus Vision Center
800 King Farm Blvd., Suite 135
Rockville, MD 20850
(866) 724-6033
Learn More -
LasikPlus Vision Center
1101 King St., Suite 100
Alexandria, MD 22314
(866) 724-6034
Learn More -
LasikPlus Vision Center
22 West Road, Suite 201
Baltimore, MD 21204
(866) 724-6033
Learn More
Medicine loves acronyms those snappy little words created from the initial letter or letters of words that make up a compound (and often complex) term.
This is because medical terms are descriptive, but traditionally contain long and difficult to pronounce words with Greek and Latin origins.
The word "LASIK" is an acronym for "laser in situ keratomileusis" (sometimes also called "laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis").
In situ is a Latin term meaning "in its original position or place;" kerato- is a Greek-derived prefix meaning "cornea;" and mileusis means "to shape."
So although the complete name for LASIK is a mouthful, it describes the procedure well: LASIK is the use of a laser to (re)shape the intact, living cornea so the eye can focus light more accurately.
Did you know that "laser" itself is an acronym? It means "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."
So doctors aren't the only ones who like big, unwieldy compound terms physicists do too!
Note: This information is for general education purposes only. It is not to be used as a substitute for medical advice from your eye doctor or refractive surgeon.