Blade-Free (IntraLase®) LASIK is an Intriguing Option

At Eye Physicians of Austin, LASIK surgery starts with a very good instrument called a microkeratome or, most often, with an Intralase® laser that's newer, blade-free and frequently even better. Now there's a great set of choices!

With either option, the surgeon moves the instrument or laser painlessly across a small outer layer of the eye (the cornea) to make a "hinged flap of paper-thin corneal tissue" still partially attached to the cornea, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology - that's the organization for Eye M.D.s, including laser eye surgeons in Austin and nationwide. (We like the way they say such things and the medical standards they promote.)

When the IntraLase laser moves across the cornea, it produces many tiny bubbles between the layers of tissue. Then it stops at a pre-set spot. The surgeon then easily folds back the top flap.

With the microkeratome, a very thin blade cuts the corneal flap.

Next the surgeon folds back the flap and uses the LASIK laser to reshape the cornea for better vision. Then the surgeon places the flap back into its original position, where it seals without stitches. Read further for more details.

Researchers are still studying whether IntraLase or microkeratome is best. So far, there is no clear winner. Both can produce excellent results.

Your LASIK surgeon considers many factors when recommending the best choice for you. For instance, Intralase supporters emphasize research showing that patients can have fewer flap complications, fewer short-term side effects of LASIK and fewer second treatments. Microkeratome fans say its advantages include further reducing the already tiny chance that the eye will be more light sensitive for a while. Sometimes the characteristics of your cornea help determine the best choice. Or expense may be a factor because Intralase costs a little more.

At Eye Physicians of Austin, the LASIK surgery specialists most often use the blade-free Intralase laser. But we never decide until we've thoroughly examined your eye and discussed the best medical option with you.