MODEL RELEASED. Laser eye surgery. Surgeon using a microscope to view the eye of a patient during LASIK surgery. LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a type of refractive laser eye surgery that corrects a condition called astigmatism. A laser is used to correct blurred vision caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. It is also used to correct myopia (short-sightedness) and hyperopia (long- sightedness). During the procedure, a flap of the cornea is cut open to allow the laser to be used.