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iLASIK
Q. What is iLASIK?
A. iLASIK is an advanced laser technology that offers a
safe, all laser approach to the correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness
and astigmatism . While traditional LASIK is a very safe, effective and
precise procedure, iLASIK further reduces the risk of complications.
As a result, patients now gain a new level of confidence in vision correction
surgery. In addition, iLASIK extends the benefits of the procedure to
many patients who were poor candidates before.
Q. How is iLASIK different from traditional LASIK?
A. Both LASIK and iLASIK sculpt the inner layers
of the cornea (the front part of the eye) with an excimer laser. Before the
excimer laser is applied, the surgeon creates a flap to reach the inner layers
of the cornea, then re-positions it after the treatment. Many people do not
realize that in traditional LASIK this first step, the flap creation, is
accomplished using a blade.
The innovation brought about by iLASIK is the use of a special laser,
instead of a blade, to create a flap in the first place. This makes LASIK
a truly all-laser procedure, and is the single most important advancement in
vision correction.
Q. Is traditional LASIK unsafe?
A. No, traditional LASIK is a safe, effective and precise
procedure with minimal risk. In more than two million procedures conducted
worldwide, experienced surgeons have achieved extremely low flap complication
rates (0.1-0.5%). Nevertheless, iLASIK reduces risks by as much as 95 percent
because of fewer flap complications, especially for less experienced surgeons.
Q. How would you compare the visual outcomes using iLASIK with those
of traditional LASIK?
A. Today, it is known that visual outcomes with iLASIK
are comparable with those of traditional LASIK. Studies are now underway to
evaluate whether results with iLASIK might be even better, as have been
anecdotally reported.
Q. I have seen several advertisements for “All Laser LASIK.”
Is this iLASIK?
A. The INTRALASE FS Laser is the only laser that provides
iLASIK. And only iLASIK combines the versatility and convenience of LASIK, with
the safety and micron-level precision of a truly all laser surgical approach.
Other providers may advertise all laser, but they may refer to older, flap-less
procedures such as PRK, LASEK or LTK. Patients should ask for iLASIK
(Intralase) by name.
Q. Is iLASIK more expensive?
A. Advanced technologies are usually more expensive for
surgeons to employ in their practice. Most patients agree that the added level
of safety and assurance offered by iLASIK is well worth the marginal,
additional cost.
Click here to read a
brochure on iLASIK or click here for
an informative video.
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PRK
Our offices use the VISX Star S4.
A whole new dimension in technology and safety.
The ONLY laser vision correction system that offers all these features!
