LASIK corrective eye surgery is a procedure in which a small incision is made in the cornea, allowing for the top layer of the cornea to be folded back like a flap. A laser is then used to reshape the cornea to improve vision, and the corneal flap is restored to its original position. The difference between traditional LASIK and the all-laser IntraLase method, is that IntraLase uses a laser to make the initial incision, while traditional LASIK uses a blade.
Traditional LASIK
In traditional LASIK procedures, an instrument called a keratome is used to make the initial incision in the cornea. There are two kinds of keratomes: a microkeratome, which is a blade, and an epikeratome, which is a blunt separator. Compared to the use of IntraLase, these incision methods are less accurate, may require a longer healing process, and could result in a less effective procedure.
The IntraLase Method
In contrast to the micro- and epikeratomes, the all-laser or IntraLase method uses a femtosecond laser to make the corneal flap. The laser works by emitting small, rapid pulses of light at the eye. These pulses create a precisely positioned layer of microscopic bubbles just below the cornea. The cornea is then peeled back at the point where the bubbles have formed.
Why IntraLase?
The accuracy of the laser means the IntraLase method creates a thinner corneal flap, leading to superior results than in procedures where a thicker flap is created. Also, the laser can be customized for individual eyes, taking into account diameter, angle of the flap, thickness of the cornea, and other factors unique to each patient. Also, after the procedure, the flap is gently put back into place and heals on its own, with no stitches necessary.
If you live in the Los Angeles area and are considering LASIK surgery, please visit the website of the IntraLase experts at the Khanna Institute of LASIK and Refractive Surgery for a free consultation about the advantages of the IntraLase method over traditional LASIK methods.
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