IntraLASIK (IntraLase) surgery is also known as bladeless LASIK eye surgery. The difference between IntraLASIK and LASIK eye surgery comes down to how the eye surgeon makes creates the corneal flap.
IntraLASIK is called bladeless LASIK eye surgery because it uses a laser to “cut” the flap for the cornea. In traditional LASIK surgery, a handheld instrument called a microkeratome, which is a precise cutting tool with a metal blade, creates the corneal flap.
Although results using a microkeratome are always great, the use of the IntraLASIK laser to cut the flap is more precise and less likely to be vulnerable to infection or human error. This procedure has also been found to produce better vision with fewer complications.
Some of the benefits of having an IntraLASIK procedure are:
Less scarring
Less chance of uneven flap edges, which can worsen astigmatism
Less chance of epithelial ingrowth
The exact tailoring of the cutting of the flap so that it precisely corrects your vision
Faster healing of the flap after surgery
Increases the chances of acquiring 20/20 vision or better
Reduces the risk of dry eye
Reduces the need to have the procedure touched up at a later date
The only drawback of the IntraLASIK procedure is that sometimes it can cause the eyes to become temporarily more sensitive to light. Wearing sunglasses and applying eye drops resolve this condition.
Once the flap has been created, the rest of the IntraLASIK procedure is the same as the LASIK procedure. An excimer laser is used to ablate the exposed surface and reshape the cornea to correct refractive error. The entire procedure takes several minutes.
IntraLASIK can be more expensive than traditional LASIK surgery, but for some patients, the benefits may be worth the extra cost.
If you are interested in IntraLASIK surgery, The LASIK Review can help you find a qualified practictioner in your area. Click here to schedule a free consultation appointment, or contact us to have a LASIK Eye Surgery center that offers IntraLASIK contact you.
