INTRALASE ®

LASIK (Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) has proven to be a very successful procedure, freeing millions of the daily dependence on glasses and contact lenses. Yet, while LASIK complications are rare, all surgery carries some degree of risk. Now, advances in laser technology have made it possible to significantly reduce the majority of LASIK complications. This advancement is known as IntraLase®.

IntraLase® is the first blade-free laser technology for performing the critical first step in the LASIK procedure: creating the corneal flap. Prior to IntraLase®, this first step was done manually using a hand-held device with a metal blade, called a microkeratome.

How it Works

LASIK is a two-step process. In the first step, the surgeon creates a flap of corneal tissue and folds it back to prepare the eye for the second step, where an excimer laser is used on the inner cornea to correct vision. This two-step process allows for rapid visual recovery with little or no patient discomfort.

With IntraLase®, the surgeon uses the precision of a computer-guided infrared laser to create the corneal flap. The IntraLase® laser operates at extremely high speeds (pulses of one quadrillionth of a second), allowing tissue to be targeted and divided at a molecular level without heat or impact to surrounding tissue.

IntraLase® delivers micron-level accuracy giving the surgeon more control during the procedure and the ability to establish precise dimensions and thickness of the corneal flap, factors which are critical to a successful LASIK outcome.

This level of precision is unparalleled by any other technology in vision correction surgery. IntraLase® allows surgeons to tailor the corneal flap for each individual patient, and each individual eye. Because of its consistent accuracy, IntraLase® may make LASIK a viable option even for patients who previously didn’t qualify, such as those with thin corneas.

Benefits of IntraLase® laser:

provides patients with an extra margin of safety by eliminating potential complications from mechanical microkeratomes.
allows us to perform LASIK on patients with thin corneas because we can make a more precise, more shallow flap, which allows us to correct higher levels of refractive error.
provides both the patient and the surgeon with a higher level of confidence knowing the creation of the flap will be without complications. Patients and surgeons relax more during the procedure making it more enjoyable for all.
makes laser vision correction an all laser procedure, which significantly adds to its precision and predictability.
also creates better fitting flaps. Once put back in place, these flaps form a tight seal, making flap dislocation after the procedure more difficult.
To learn more about Intralase® call (818) 762-0647 for a FREE personal consultation