The name “LASIK” is short for Laser Insitu Keratomileusis. LASIK reshapes the cornea with excimer laser technology. The shape of the cornea is what determines whether you are nearsighted, farsighted, have astigmatism or have normal vision. The Excimer Laser emits a “cool” laser light that can remove microscopic amounts of tissue with extreme precision. Physicians can program the laser to sculpt the cornea.