New Lasik Technologies

Eyesight correction has evolved the past few centuries. We started with eyeglasses, which have been tested by centuries of use, then developed contact lenses for a more fashionable look. Some decades ago, a new form of eyesight correction was developed. This involved surgery and the change resulting from the operation is more permanent than previous solutions.

Several ways of performing eye surgery were developed, but the most popular of all is Lasik (short for Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis). Lasik uses lasers to change the shape of the cornea (the front part of the eye that does most of the focusing for our eyes) to improve vision. However, several complaints came up after treatment so it became important to create new Lasik technologies to improve results and increase safety.

Wavefront technology:

Wavefront technology was developed in the early 21st century. It is used to create a three-dimensional map of the cornea. This improved Lasik because the surgical plans developed from the maps are customized for each patient’s eye.

All-Laser Lasik:

Also called IntraLasik and produced by the IntraLase Corporation, this new Lasik technology no longer needs to use a microkeratome (A microkeratome uses a blade to create the corneal flap, the first step of eye surgery). Instead a laser is used to create bubbles in the cornea and a flap can easily and precisely be lifted from the rest of the eye.

All-Laser Lasik may be the only option for those who had not, initially, been qualified for the surgery. Because new Lasik technology involves creating flaps with precise thickness, it allows patients with thin corneas or large pupils to undergo the treatment. Best of all it minimizes complications like buttonhole flaps (incomplete corneal flaps).

Advanced Control Eyetracking (ACE) Technology:

This was developed by Technolas Perfect Vision. The Eyetracker locks on to specific details in the iris. This information allows lasers to automatically adjust to eye movements during the surgery, to accurately reshape the cornea according to the surgical plan made before the operation.

Based on a study of 2,000 Lasik cases, the use of ACE increases the chance of curing astigmatism and reduces the chance of going back to the surgeon for another operation.

What new Lasik technology is currently being developed?

The latest technology in eye surgery is the microwave systems being developed by Avedro, Inc. Microwaves are used, instead of needles or lasers, to correct eyesight. Best of all, no tissue cutting is necessary with this technology. However, this device is targeted to be marketed for those with minimal nearsightedness and is also not a permanent solution to eye problems. It will be necessary to come back to the eye surgeon if vision blurs again. In addition, the device is still in development and may take more time before it is available to the public.

New Lasik technology developments have occurred the past few years. Some will be better than others in terms of price and others in terms of results. It is always best to check out which option will work out for the pocket and the requirements of the patient’s eyes.