What Is iLASIK?
When patients meet with the vision care specialists of GW Eye Associates, they know that they are meeting with some of the finest eye doctors in San Diego. Our team offers all patients ample information when it comes to corrective lenses as well as advanced laser eye surgery for refravtive errors.
The term "iLASIK" has come up a lot in recent years. No, this isn't Apple's foray into laser vision correction, but it is something in eye surgery that's as forward-thinking as many Apple innovations. Let's look at iLASIK right now and why it's a great option to consider.
iLASIK Means Blade-Free, All-Laser Custom Vision Surgery
iLASIK is just another way of referring to the most technologically advanced form of LASIK surgery that is available today. iLASIK means custom LASIK surgery that is done entirely with lasers. There is no need for a blade to make the surgery a reality, which has many crucial benefits to consider.
Why Blade-Free LASIK is Better
In the past, a small physical tool known as a microkeratome was required in order to create a flap in the topmost layer of the cornea. It was through this flap that the corneal reshaping and revision would occur.
While the tool was safe, there was the slight chance of human error or infection due to physical contact.
With all-laser, blade-free LASIK, the chance of infection is eliminated. The safe surgical laser that creates the cornea flap will precisely create the incision, allowing the surgery to be carried forward with reduced risk.
Wavefront Technology Means Treating Higher and Lower Order Aberrations
In addition to blade-free LASIK, iLASIK means the use of state-of-the-art wavefront scanning technology. The wavefront scanner creates a three-dimensional map of the cornea. This allows minute imperfections on the corneal surface to be identified and addressed.
The wavefront map allows lower order aberrations and higher order aberrations to be addressed. The lower order aberrations are the refractive errors with which most people are familiar (myopia/nearsightedness, hyperopia/farsightedness, and astigmatism). The higher order aberrations are very small corneal imperfections that lead to issues with glare, halos, and other minute matters involving light and contrast.
Computer-Guided LASIK Eliminates Human Error
Further reducing human error and potential mistakes, iLASIK is computer-guided. The wavefront map that is taken of the patient's eyes is uploaded into a computer that positions and moves the LASIK laser. This level of precision means that those minute corneal flaws will be addressed and the possibility of error significantly lowered.
iLASIK vs. Traditional LASIK
Let's consider the results of iLASIK when compared to traditional LASIK. Ultimately, the advantages of iLASIK are obvious.
- With iLASIK, patients experience added safety
- With iLASIK, patients are more likely to be satisfied with the overall results
- With iLASIK, patients have lower order and higher order aberrations treated
- With iLASIK, patients see better than patients who received traditional LASIK
Learn More About Custom LASIK Surgery
For more information about iLASIK and how it can help you see clearly and without the aid of contact lenses or glasses, it's of the utmost importance that you contact our advanced eye care and vision correction center today. The entire team here at GW Eye Associates looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve excellent eyesight.