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LASIK Surgery in detail
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LASIK - This is the acronym for Laser in situ Keratomileusis, a technique for correction of long-sightedness, short-sightedness and astigmatism. First performed in 1988, millions of people have benefited from this newer procedure.
Either an automated microkeratome or an IntraLase™ laser is used to raise a thin flap of tissue from the corneal surface, the flap is laid aside and the excimer laser is used to ablate tissue from the exposed corneal material (the stromal bed). The flap is repositioned and the extraordinary bonding properties of corneal tissue allow it to adhere within minutes.
LASIK using the IntraLase® Laser
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The ultrafast IntraLase FS60 laser uses an infrared light beam, generating 30,000 pulses per second, to prepare an optimal architecture below the flap. |
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Total Time: 30 Seconds |
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Using an "inside-out" process, the IntraLase laser is precisely focused to a point within the cornea, where thousands of microscopic bubbles are formed to define the architecture of the intracorneal surface and the resulting flap. |
The surgeon controls flap diameter, depth, hinge location and width, and side-cut architecture - factors that can be varied per patient. Bubbles are then stacked along the edge up to the corneal surface to complete step 1. |
The physician then exposes the prepared corneal bed for excimer laser treatment by lifting the flap. The LASIK procedure is complete when the flap is securely prepositioned on its bevelled edge. |
LASIK using a Microkeratome
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1 Traditionally the creation of the LASIK corneal flap was performed with an oscillating razor blade, called a microkeratome. |
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The flap is then lifted to expose the inner cornea for the second step: the vision treatment by the excimer laser |
LASIK achieves faster restoration of vision than most other techniques and the second eye can be treated at the same time as the first.
With LASIK there is a risk of corneal flap complications which is greatly reduced with the use of IntraLase™. The selection of LASIK or PRK depends on multiple factors and is determined at your ophthalmic consultation.
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Images are distorted when the cornea does not focus light directly on the retina correctly.
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Lasik surgery results in eye sight being restored to near normal.
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The microkeratome or IntraLase™ first makes the inner corneal surface available then the excimer laser adjusts the cornea so that light is focused correctly. Notice that the cornea has a natural ability to return to seal itself again.
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Complications
As with all refractive surgery, there is a risk of over or under correction, astigmatism, visual fluctuation and blurring with haloes, ghostings or multiple images.
LASIK flap complications are unusual (now less than 1% using the IntraLase™ laser) but can delay healing or cause corneal distortion or scarring with permanent loss of vision.
Infection is a rare but serious complication for LASIK or PRK treatments resulting in visual loss.
Other rare complications have been identified and these risks are discussed, along with those associated with PRK, in the accompanying risks and complications page to allow you to make an informed decision.
While, as with any surgery, the risks are real, their occurrence is very low and many millions of people have enjoyed the benefits of laser refractive surgery. The Eyesight Laser Centre is committed to providing the best and safest procedure for each individual.
