What is LASIK?
LASIK or Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis surgery reshapes the cornea by removing tissue beneath the surface. LASIK combines the accuracy of the Excimer Laser with the benefits of Lamellar Keratoplasty.
First, a device called a microkeratome lifts a thin layer of the cornea. This instrument creates a precise layer by working very much like a carpenter's plane. This layer, or flap, is then folded back. Next, a cool beam of light gently reshapes the outer surface of the cornea. The laser treatment typically takes less than one minute, and the flap is replaced in its original position.
LASIK is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes less than 30 minutes to treat both eyes. You will remain awake during the procedure and the only anesthetic you will need is eye drops. Anticipate being at the surgery center about one hour on the day of the procedure. Most patients experience improved vision the same day and are able to return to work within a few days, often the very next day. You will take an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory drop a few times a day for one week following your procedure, and you will use supplemental moisture drops for several weeks after surgery.
Some of the advantages of LASIK are little or no post-operative discomfort, waking with good vision the following morning, and being back at work quickly. Most patients wear no corrective glasses after surgery although those over the age of 45 often require some reading glasses.
A comprehensive eye examination is necessary to determine if LASIK surgery is advisable. We seek the very best outcomes from excellent candidates only, and some patients will be advised that they should not have laser vision correction. When you meet with us for your consultation, after a thorough examination and discussion, we will be able to tell you if you are suitable to proceed.
LASIK Technology
VISX Star S4 Active-Trak Excimer Laser
VISX pioneered the development of excimer laser systems and remains the industry leader in quality and innovation. Their ActiveTrak™ system not only provides the best in safety, accuracy and comfort, but it is the system that doctors have trusted in over 2 million procedures. Their rigorous Research and Development practices continually improve technology and processes, resulting in meaningful clinical applications - and better vision.
VISX laser systems have features that translate into several advantages for you:
- VISX laser systems produce the smoothest surface on the cornea after the procedure. Smoother ablations, as they're known, promote faster healing and result in better vision.
- VISX laser systems allow the doctor to track your eye movement in all three dimensions during the treatment, for greater control.
- VISX laser systems achieve an optical zone that may result in reduced problems with night vision.
- VISX ActiveTrak™ laser systems produce seven variable sized beams, giving the doctor greater flexibility and allowing for a faster, smoother treatment with precise corneal shaping.
- VISX laser systems require a shorter procedure time, which enhances comfort and may reduce the risk of post-operative complications.
What is an eye tracking system?
At Urban Eye M.D. Associates, we use the VISX Star S4 ActiveTrak Excimer laser system. This newest-generation laser system incorporates the latest active eye-tracking system, in addition to other advancements, to help our surgeons deliver the best possible treatment. Designed to provide better laser vision correction, the ActiveTrak eye tracker is a new 3D eye-tracking technology. With ActiveTrak, the laser detects and compensates for small eye movements by guiding the laser beam to keep it centered precisely over the treatment area. It continuously repositions the laser beam throughout the procedure for greater accuracy and realigns itself between each laser pulse insuring pinpoint accuracy. The eye tracker adds a new level of precision, comfort, and safety. This new technology makes older eye trackers - which require dilation - virtually obsolete. Compared to other trackers, ActiveTrak requires no pupil dilation, which allows the surgeon to center the laser beam more accurately.
