All laser LASIK, also known as iLASIK, is an update of an older procedure. LASIK is an acronym for Laser-assisted in situ Keratomileusis. This procedure was developed to correct visual problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and an irregularly shaped cornea (known as astigmatism) all through the use of an excimer laser.

During LASIK, a thin layer of cells, or “flap,” of the cornea is cut by a blade called a microkeratome. The flap remains attached by a small hinge of cells and is folded over, revealing the underlying tissue, or stroma, allowing it to be reshaped by the laser. During iLASIK, this flap is created by an ultra-fast laser (known as a femtosecond laser) that uses infrared energy to insert tiny overlapping spaces below the surface of the cornea. The femtosecond laser allows for more accuracy and prevents any possible injury to the flap that may cause distortion in the post-operative vision. It also prevents the possibility of a button-hole flap which can lead to scar tissue that drastically reduces the quality of vision post-operative.

iLASIK has become the preferred procedure for most patients for several reasons. The discomfort from the microkeratome in traditional LASIK is completely avoided. While the microkeratome is not painful, since the eye is numbed with anesthetic drops, it is uncomfortable. Suction is used to keep the blade in place while the flap is cut, which increases the pressure in the eye to well over 80 mmhg (millimeters of mercury). This increase causes the vision to fade to black for a few seconds until the flap has been cut. The excess pressure can also cause unsightly hemorrhages, or ruptures in the blood vessels of the sclera (the white of the eye). With iLASIK, there is suction required to hold the eye, reducing discomfort and the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Many ophthalmologists still prefer using the microkeratome because with iLASIK there is a higher risk of edema, and photosensitivity immediately post-operative. Also, older femtosecond lasers were much slower to cut flaps than the microkeratome; however, newer models only take about 10 seconds. To learn more regarding our all laser LASIK procedures or any of our services, we encourage you to contact us today.