Because each person’s eye is as unique as their fingerprint or DNA, the iLASIK procedure takes special care to customize your vision correction plan to match the specific needs and measurements of your eye.
The first step in the iLASIK procedure is to create a 3-D map of your eye with the iDesign Advanced Wavescan System. Wavescan mapping is able to diagnose your specific eye characteristics with 25 times more accuracy than previous methods. Once the WaveScan has produced a detailed map of your eye, it translates this information into a set of CustomVue treatment instructions for the STAR S4 IR™ Excimer Laser System laser. This technology provides unprecedented customization, allowing the laser to treat your eye with precision like never before.
The second step in iLASIK uses the IntraLase laser (a Femtosecond laser) to create your corneal flap. The IntraLase® passes tiny, rapid pulses of laser light through the top layers of your cornea forming a microscopic layer of bubbles just beneath the surface of the cornea. This microscopic layer of bubbles enables your surgeon to easily lift your thin, corneal flap so the next step of LASIK can begin. Studies have shown that flaps created with the IntraLase laser have fewer complications and greater stability than flaps created with a blade. Additionally, more patients achieve 20/20 vision or better with procedures performed with Intralase technology.
Once the LASIK flap has been made with the Intralase laser, the VISX Star S4 Eximer Laser is used to gently reshape the cornea to the desired curvature, based on the digital information from your personalized WaveScan WaveFront map. Once your laser vision correction is complete, your doctor will reposition the LASIK flap, and your iLASIK procedure is complete. Most of our patients will see a noticeable improvement in vision within a few hours and many are able to return to normal activities within 24 hours.
To prepare for LASIK surgery, please read our section on what to expect on the day of your surgery.