LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a game-changer in vision correction. It has freed millions worldwide from their chains of glasses and contact lenses. Doing so even as it continues to evolve makes the feat more impressive. Currently, it looks to push its credentials further with the introduction of blade-free LASIK, also known as iLASIK. 

What Is Blade-free LASIK?

Blade-free LASIK, or IntraLase LASIK to be precise, utilizes femtosecond laser technology instead of a mechanical blade to create a corneal flap. The femtosecond laser emits ultrafast pulses of light to create microscopic bubbles within the cornea, resulting in a precise and customized corneal flap.

Advantages of Blade-free LASIK

Blade-free LASIK offers many advantages over traditional LASIK, making it a preferred choice for patients and eye care professionals. The precise femtosecond laser technology used in blade-free LASIK allows for more accurate creation of the corneal flap. 

Tailored to everyone’s unique eye characteristics, precision iLASIK contributes to improved visual outcomes and reduces the risk of complications.

The femtosecond laser can create a flap with customized dimensions, thickness, and shape. It considers factors such as corneal curvature and refractive errors. The customization enhances the quality of vision correction.

Blade-free LASIK reduces the risk of flap edges and buttonhole flaps, complications that can occur with mechanical blades. The laser creates a smoother, more predictable flap, ensuring a safer procedure.

The use of a femtosecond laser in blade-free LASIK is effective. It promotes quicker healing and recovery than traditional LASIK. The precision of laser technology contributes to better corneal healing. It reduces the incidence of postoperative complications. 

The Blade-free LASIK Procedure

The steps used in blade-free LASIK are like those in traditional LASIK. The main difference is the creation of the corneal flap.

Your eye care professional will perform a comprehensive eye examination to assess your suitability for blade-free LASIK. They will consider factors like corneal thickness, refractive errors, and eye health.

The femtosecond laser creates a thin, hinged flap on the cornea. The flap is lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue. The eye doctor then uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. It corrects refractive errors such as:

• Nearsightedness

• Farsightedness

• Astigmatism

The excimer laser removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to achieve the desired correction. Next, the corneal flap is repositioned back onto the treated cornea area. The natural adhesion of the corneal tissue helps the flap settle into place without the need for sutures.

Postoperative Care 

Following the blade-free LASIK procedure, you will receive instructions for postoperative care. It may include using eye drops to aid healing and prevent infection. Regular follow-up visits with your eye care professional will get scheduled. They will help to track the healing process. They will also help ensure optimal visual outcomes.

Success Rates of Blade-free LASIK

Blade-free LASIK shows high patient satisfaction rates and excellent visual outcomes. Its use of femtosecond laser technology offers precision and customization that contributes to better vision clarity.

It enhances night vision and reduces the risk of side effects such as glare and halos. Clinical studies report high success rates, reducing the need for enhancement procedures.

For more information on blade-free LASIK, visit Sacramento Eye Consultants at our office in Sacramento or Lincoln, California. Call (916) 915-0300 to book an appointment today.