LASIK surgery is the most popular laser vision correction procedure performed today, and for good reason. Ongoing advancements in laser technology and ophthalmology have made way for successful surgeries and better visual outcomes. At Harvard Eye Associates in San Clemente, our doctors utilize the latest advancements in LASIK surgery to offer patients the best possible vision correction experience. The most advanced LASIK techniques include:
Bladeless – LASIK involves reshaping the cornea to correct the refractive error. To access the cornea, a flap must be made. In previous vision correction techniques, the flap was created using a hand-held bladed tool. Modern LASIK techniques utilize a femtosecond laser to create the flap, eliminating the risks associated with the use of a manual blade. Studies have shown that the femtosecond laser allows for more precise corneal flap thickness, improving the accuracy and predictability of this part of the surgery. This also offers a decreased risk of corneal abrasions during the procedure, and a decreased risk of induced astigmatism after LASIK. It also gives more options in terms of flap size, shape and orientation, yielding a more customized procedure as well as a faster healing time thanks to the smoother edges of the flap.
Eye Tracking Technology – Early LASIK procedures required patients to fixate on a light to treat the refractive error. Modern LASIK utilizes advanced eye-tracking systems that keep track of the eye’s continual movements. The eye naturally makes small involuntary movements. Advanced eye tracking systems have an active infrared eye tracker that tracks the center of the pupil to detect and compensate for any involuntary eye movements. The active eye tracker can move 10 times faster than the human eye as well as faster than the laser itself. Eye tracking has markedly increased the accuracy of LASIK and makes patients feel confident that any micro eye movements they make won’t affect the visual outcome of their procedure.
Custom Wavefront Mapping – Wavefront mapping is a highly sophisticated technology that allows your surgeon to create a 3D image of your eye. The information gathered by the wavefront map system helps detect the eye’s unique imperfections and it allows the laser to create a smoother and more precise corneal shape. Wavefront technology increases the accuracy of visual outcomes and reduces the likelihood of side effects such as glare and halos.
These advancements have made LASIK more effective and more accessible to potential candidates. Advancements in LASIK technology broadens the number of people eligible for LASIK. Nowadays, patients with thin corneas, who were previously unable to undergo the procedure, can become candidates thanks to the femtosecond laser’s ability to create a thinner flap. Essentially, these LASIK advancements allow each procedure to be tailored to the unique shape of each patient’s eye. As you might expect, this results in excellent outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
Safety and accuracy of vision outcomes are some of the most important criteria in choosing a LASIK surgeon. Our doctors in San Clemente understand this and would love to help you reach your goals of clear vision with these advanced techniques. To schedule a LASIK consultation, contact Harvard Eye Associates today at 949-951-2020 or harvardeye.com.
