Blade Free Lasik

 While many patients are great candidates for LASIK, your eyes are completely unique to you. You will need to undergo a thorough consultation with one of our surgeons to determine if LASIK is a good option for you. If you are not a good candidate for LASIK, there are often other options for surgical vision correction.

The creation of the corneal flap is done in preparation for the second phase of the LASIK procedure. This is when another laser, known as an excimer laser, is used to sculpt corneal tissue and correct the eye’s individual prescription. The all-laser LASIK method creates the corneal flap by applying tiny, rapid pulses of laser which evaporate the corneal tissue. The laser pulses pass through the top layers of the cornea, creating microscopic bubbles at a specific depth and position that has been pre-determined by the surgeon. The femtosecond laser applies these pulses throughout the entirety of the pre-determined flap size and then cuts entry points for the surgeon. The flap is then accessed, separated, and gently folded back so your surgeon can perform the second step of your LASIK procedure which is the vision correction laser or excimer laser phase of the procedure.

 LASIK is a fairly quick procedure, with flap formation taking roughly 15 seconds per eye and the entire procedure lasting for about 10 minutes. LASIK is a nearly painless procedure as numbing drops are administered to keep the eye comfortable. You should have transportation arrangements made for the day of surgery as you will not be able to drive immediately following the procedure. As healing begins, patients may have some redness, soreness, and scratchy feelings in the eyes, but medicated drops will be given to aid in comfort during this process. Most patients achieve good functional vision within 24 hours of their procedure. Do not be alarmed if your vision is not 20/20 right away, as your vision may be hazy or foggy during the initial healing process.  Your vision can fluctuate during the healing process. The fluctuation can last anywhere from 4-6 weeks, but may take longer to stabilize as eyes all heal at different rates.

Avoid any water sports, applying makeup, use of lotions or sunscreen products for 2 weeks. You should not rub your eyes for 1 month and you should protect your eyes by wearing safety goggles for sports or work. If you have any questions or concerns about other activities or restrictions, you should discuss it with your surgeon!