Introduction
LASIK actually stands for Laser in-situ keratomileusis, which is the most commonly performed type of laser eye surgery. Although there are risks with any kind of surgery, this procedure is generally effective, and has very few potential side effects. LASIK is a great option for many individuals considering laser vision correction for a variety of very personal and professional reasons. LASIK may not promise perfect vision, however; it is a highly successful procedure that can reduce a person’s dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The lifestyle benefits can be tremendous for active and social people. These benefits can enable people to more freely pursue their hobbies, sports activities or career options.
The Excimer LASER
LASIK involves the use of an excimer laser to permanently change the shape of the cornea, or the outer layer of the eye. The EXCIMER laser, which is a specific type of “cool” laser, generates its power from light in the ultraviolet range. It cannot be visualized by the human eye. Because the laser does not generate any heat, there is no tissue damage as the result of the laser light. As the treatment with the laser proceeds, microscopic layers of tissue, approximately 1/10th the width of a human hair are removed. The laser is programmed to remove precisely the amount of tissue needed to achieve the desired result.
The Lasik Procedure
LaserVision at Maine Eye Center is proud to be the first to offer iLASIK technology in Maine. iLASIK is the latest and most advanced LASIK eye surgery. Although most people that had traditional LASIK had no problems whatsoever, ophthalmologists and engineers were eager to make vision correction procedure even better. With over a decade of research and clinical results, LASIK Doctors and industry experts sought a more predictable solution. iLASIK now provides this solution. By combining CustomVue wavefront technology with VISX™ Star4 active tracking capability and a blade-free femtosecond laser for an ALL-laser LASIK, we can now achieve a safer more precise result. The technology used in the iLASIK procedure has been thoroughly tested and scrutinized, and it is clear that iLASIK truly represents a technological combination unmatched in vision correction.
Because the iLASIK procedure has brought together a unique combination of technology that leads to safer more predictable results, NASA and the United States Navy both endorse iLASIK as the preferred method of vision correction. It was not until LASIK was developed into an ALL-LASER method using a femtosecond laser for the cutting of the corneal flap that NASA considered approving LASIK for the eyes of United States Astronauts and space program candidates. The military and NASA together conducted extensive research and thus confirmed the excellent safety record of the Intralase Femtosecond laser.
Risks
LASIK is a surgical procedure. It is crucial that patients are well educated on the potential benefits and risks of this procedure. As with any type of surgery risks are involved. After your pre-operative evaluation you will have a good idea about the risks and what they imply to your specific situation. It is important to discuss any concerns with your surgeon and weigh the risks and potential benefits. Each patient’s vision is different and different treatment options are available in order to give the best possible results. The only way to determine if LASIK is right for you is to come in and discuss your options with our LASIK coordinator.