The evolution of LASIK has since FDA approval in 1999 has been nothing short of remarkable. The first LASIK procedures were performed by creating a thin superficial corneal “flap or cap” with an instrument known as a microkeratome or “blade”. The microkeratome is a sophisticated device with a mechanical blade that oscillates at a high rate of speed creating a thin flap of corneal tissue about 150 microns thick. The flap would then be elevated exposing the inner cornea. Next, the excimer laser treatment would be directed to the exposed surface of the cornea to reshape the eye. The flap would then be repositioned and allowed to heal. The advantage of LASIK was the fast healing time of the flap allowing rapid return of vision within hours of the procedure. Despite the good outcomes, many complications of LASIK surgery were related to the flap created by a mechanical microkeratome.
Since approval of LASIK in 1999 by the FDA, newer and more sophisticated methods hare now employed to create of the corneal flap that are much safer, more precise, reproducible than flaps created by the microkeratome. ALL LASER “Blade Free” LASIK has evolved and is now incorporated in all LASIK procedures at Michelson Laser Vision. The femtosecond laser fires at speed of 10-15 seconds to create corneal flaps as thin as 90 microns with incredible precision and reproducibility. The femtosecond laser reduces variability and results in better outcomes. Dr. Michelson prides himself on having the latest state-of-the-art technology and equipment and remains a leader in the field of LASIK and refractive surgery.
For the ultimate in blade free procedures, Dr. Michelson currently uses the Femtosecond Laser known as Ziemer, to create “blade free” corneal flaps. The Ziemer alleviates the need to use blades for LASIK.
The femtosecond laser produces millions of tiny submicroscopic closely spaced gas bubbles inside the cornea to aid the surgeon in lifting of the “cap or flap”. An additional advantage of the femtosecond laser is the capability of allowing more patients who might not have been a good candidate for LASIK with a microkeratome to become good candidates for LASIK with the femtosecond laser. People who previously were told that they were not viable candidates for LASIK because their corneas were too thin should be re-evaluated. Since the flaps generated by the femtosecond laser are only 90 microns thick, patients who were told their corneas were too thin may now experience the joy of not depending on eyeglasses or contacts for their vision. If you or someone you know were previously not a viable candidate for LASIK, consider having a free consultation to determine if this technology will enable you to join others in breaking free from the dependency of contacts and eyeglasses by contacting Michelson Laser Vision at 205-969-8100.
Bladeless All Laser LASIK at Michelson Laser Vision, Birmingham - Laser Cataract Surgery & Lens Implants at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Birmingham.
