What Is Intralase Lasik?

Intralase LASIK is a type of corrective eye surgery primarily designed to correct astigmatism, hyperopia and myopia. It's similar to LASIK surgery except that it uses a laser rather than a scalpel.

History

• IntraLase is the manufacturer of the first laser to receive Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the procedure. This procedure was first performed in 2000.

Basic Procedure

• LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, a procedure which creates a flap in the cornea so the underlying cornea can be remodeled to correct a vision problem. The flap is then repositioned and held in place with natural adhesion.

Difference

• Traditional LASIK uses a physical microkeratome to create the corneal flap whereas Intralase LASIK uses a laser to create the flap.

Laser

• Intralase LASIK uses a laser that produces a pulse that lasts for a quadrillionth of a second. This extremely short duration prevents the cornea from being damaged by overheating.

Advantages

• The laser may provide greater accuracy in the shape, size and thickness of the corneal flap. The long-term effects of IntraLase LASIK are not yet known.