Steps of the Lasik Procedure

Step One
Wavefront technology allows the LASIK treatment to
be customized for each individual. The WaveFront Map captures unique imperfections in each individual’s eyes, linking diagnostic information with laser treatment. Using this Wavefront data, LaserVue doctors obtain a "fingerprint" image and map of your entire optical system. This information is evaluated by the surgeon and transferered to the excimer laser.


STEP TWO
The IntraLase (femtosecond) Laser is used to create the corneal flap with the safety and precision of a computer-controlled laser beam. This laser replaces the hand-held microkeratome blade historically used in the first step of LASIK. The ultrafast laser virtually eliminates almost all of the most severe, sight-threatening LASIK complications related to microkeratomes. The femtosecond laser also creates an optimal surface below the flap, allowing better visual outcomes. The surgeon then gently folds this laser generated flap back to prepare the eye for the excimer laser treatment.


Step three
A cool laser beam is used to painlessly reshape the cornea and eliminate sources of aberration through a series of computer-driven pulses based on the patient's refractive and wavefront error. The laser beam is able to vaporize microscopic amounts of the cornea, enabling a precision previously unattainable.


Step Four
Finally, the protective flap that was created in step two is gently placed back in its original position. The cornea begins healing immediately and you can return home. This highly advanced combination of LASIK technologies has been proven in extensive clinical trials to provide both excellent safety and outstanding visual outcomes — beyond 20/20 in many cases. Most patients are able to return to work and drive the next day.