Currently the most popular laser vision correction procedure in North America is LASIK (laser-in-situ-keratomileusis).  LASIK uses an excimer laser to change the curvature of the cornea (the clear front surface or “window” of the eye).  This procedure has quickly become the procedure of choice for most patients because they recover quickly and have fewer side effects than with other methods of vision correction.

LASIK involves two steps.  The first is the creation of a hinged flap of thin corneal tissue.  IntraLASIK (derived from the combined use of the IntraLase laser and excimer laser in the LASIK procedure) has elevated the first step of the procedure to a new level of safety and precision.  The flap is created with a femtosecond laser rather than a mechanical microkeratome with a metal blade. The advantages that the IntraLASIK, All-laser approach provide include, more safety and predictability, more accurate flap thickness, more precise positioning of the flap, and much lower probability of flap complications.

Next, the flap is lifted and the underlying corneal tissue is reshaped with conventional excimer laser ablation or wave-front guided custom technology. The surgeon then replaces the corneal flap over the treated area where it bonds securely without the need for stitches.  Most patients experience very little, if any, discomfort during or after the procedure.  Functional vision returns very rapidly.  Most patients are able to see well enough to drive without glasses the day after the surgery.  Most patients elect to have IntraLASIK performed on both eyes the same day.

Recent studies have shown IntraLASIK to be more favorable than LASIK with a mechanical microkeratome in providing vision with better contrast sensitivity.
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