Minimize Side Effects with Bladeless LASIK Surgery

LASIK is the most exciting recent addition to the refractive surgery tools of the modern eye surgeon. Dr. Goldstein uses the VISX Star S4 excimer laser to perform individualized LASIK with CustomVue technology.  The most current advance in LASIK is the use of the femto laser to perform bladeless LASIK surgery.

Bladeless LASIK uses laser technology to create the flap on the cornea, similar to the flap that is formed by the keratome in standard LASIK surgery. The keratome makes a physical incision with a blade, cutting a very thin layer off of the front of the cornea.

Alternatively, “All-Laser LASIK”, which uses a special femto-laser, can be chosen by a patient. The flap is created completely by a precise laser, which treats to a more exact location, shape and depth. This may allow patients who were previously not candidates for surgery to have LASIK surgery!

After the treatment is completed, regardless of the method of flap creation, the flap is replaced. The flap seals itself into position very quickly, in much the same way that a contact lens stays in place on the eye. Most surgeons smooth the flap into position to ensure that it does not have folds or wrinkles.

The patient is sent home with instructions to keep their eyes closed, or to nap for a couple of hours. Most patients report a  small amount of stinging and tearing immediately after surgery. Almost all patients vision by the first day after surgery is close to 20/20, and the patients are pain free. An antibiotic eye drop is used to prevent infection. Steroid drops are needed to prevent scarring and haze. Dry eyes are also common after LASIK, and artificial tears are used for a few weeks after surgery.

Please contact us today to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK.