Bladeless LASIK
Bladeless LASIK: The Evolution of Laser Eye Surgery or Hype?
Change is inevitable. This is especially true in the world of medicine. With advances in technology, old procedures are being replaced to make way for better, faster, and safer treatments. The surgery that has seen the most significant transformation is LASIK. LASIK, short for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular surgical procedure that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Since its approval by the FDA in the mid-1990s, it has helped millions of people worldwide achieve clear, sharp vision without glasses or contacts. And now, with the introduction of bladeless LASIK, things are getting even better.
What is Bladeless LASIK?
Bladeless LASIK, also called all-laser LASIK, is an advanced type of LASIK surgery that uses only lasers to reshape the cornea. In traditional LASIK surgery, an instrument called a microkeratome is used to create a thin, hinged flap on the surface of the cornea. Then, a laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue to correct vision problems. Finally, the flap is repositioned and allowed to heal naturally.
In bladeless LASIK, however, the microkeratome is replaced with a femtosecond laser. This laser creates an ultra-thin flap by releasing energy in short, rapid pulses. The laser is so precise that it can create a flap that is only about a hundred microns thick. Once the flap has been created, a separate laser is used to reshape the cornea to correct vision problems. This laser is called an excimer laser, and it has been used in traditional LASIK surgery for many years.
Benefits of Bladeless LASIK
Bladeless LASIK offers several advantages over traditional LASIK surgery. Some of the benefits are:
1. Increased precision: Because the femtosecond laser is so precise, the flap created is of a more consistent thickness than a flap created manually with a microkeratome. This increased accuracy results in similar vision outcomes and potentially less flap related complications, or epithelial defects. Secondary treatments are similar with both techniques and are determined by multiple factors.
2. Reduced risk of complications: The microkeratome used in traditional LASIK surgery is a mechanical device, and as such, is subject to malfunction or human error. Sometimes, the blade may not cut a flap uniformly or may create an uneven edge, a partial flap, a button hole or an extremely thick flap leading to potential complications. With bladeless LASIK, there is limited risk of mechanical errors, and the procedure is less invasive. Naturally, the laser has potential complications with inflammation from the laser energy or dissecting the flap being the most common.
3. Recovery time: Bladeless LASIK is more precise than traditional blade microkeratomes used in LASIK surgery, and the femtosecond laser can be programmed to create a thinner, more uniform flap. Both techniques lead to faster healing and a quicker recovery time for the patient than PRK.
4. Fees in the long run: Patients who undergo LASIK will typically have fewer corrective procedures throughout their lifetime. Because the flap created with the femtosecond laser is of uniform thickness and less traumatic to the cornea, there is less chance of wrinkles or folds in the cornea, which could lead to visual abnormalities down the road.
5. Safety: Since all the incisions are made using lasers, bladeless LASIK surgery has potential safety advantages.
Who is a Candidate for Bladeless LASIK?
Not everyone with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism is a suitable candidate for LASIK. A comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist are necessary to determine if someone is a candidate for bladeless LASIK. However, in general, the characteristics of a good candidate for bladeless LASIK surgery are:
1. A stable prescription for at least a year: Candidates for LASIK must have a stable prescription for at least a year before the surgery.
2. Over the age of 18: Candidates must be at least 18 years old to undergo LASIK surgery.
3. Good overall eye health: Candidates must have good overall eye health, with no active eye infections, injuries, or diseases.
4. Corneal thickness: The thickness of the cornea must be adequate for the creation of a thin flap. This is usually assessed through a pachymetry test. If the cornea is too thin or the prescription is too high, PRK or an ICL can be considered.
5. Realistic expectations: Candidates must have realistic expectations about what LASIK surgery can and cannot do. They must understand that results may vary, and those over 45 still require near vision correction post-surgery unless monovision is targeted.
Conclusion
Bladeless LASIK is a game-changer when it comes to laser eye surgery. With its increased precision, reduced risk of complications, faster recovery time, and long-term benefits, it is the next generation of LASIK surgery. That said, as with all surgical procedures, it’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced ophthalmologist before making any decisions about your eye health. With the right candidate, bladeless LASIK can be an excellent choice for those seeking clear, sharp vision and freedom from glasses or contacts.
Just call 866-295-2020. Dr. Malitz was certified on the Intralase over 15 years ago!