Is bladeless LASIK better? Everything you need to know Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) laser eye surgery is one of the most effective and popular methods of vision correction surgery.1 This minimally invasive procedure lets you break free from a lifetime of vision problems and corrective lenses and let’s you regain your sight. If you’re considering LASIK, you should know that there’s more than one type to choose from. The original version uses mechanical incisions, but a newer bladeless approach offers equal results with greater precision.2 Is bladeless LASIK better, and are you making the right decision by paying more for it than other types of LASIK eye surgery? In many cases, the answer is yes.3 Let’s dive into the details to help you understand why. How bladeless LASIK works The main difference between blade vs bladeless LASIK is how the major incision is made. In traditional LASIK, the surgeon uses a tiny automated blade called a microkeratome to cut a three-sided shape in your cornea, the clear outer layer on the front of your eye. They then create the corneal flap by folding this shape back on the fourth side like a hinge to access the lens for reshaping. In contrast, bladeless LASIK surgery is an ultra-gentle, touch-free, all-laser type of laser LASIK surgery. Instead of using a microkeratome, your surgeon will use an extremely precise femtosecond laser to make the corneal incision. Is bladeless LASIK better? While both types of eye surgery provide great results, bladeless LASIK is still the better option for many patients. Research shows that this procedure is safe, effective, and provides stable long-term results.4 Some of the most significant benefits of bladeless LASIK include: The surgeon has greater flexibility and control during the procedure Greater ability to customize the operation to each patient’s needs Higher-quality corneal flaps with even thickness Lower risk of flap complications Safer for patients with thin or abnormally curved corneas Able to repair more severe or complicated refractive errors The only two downsides of bladeless LASIK are that the procedure takes a bit longer and can cost slightly more than the traditional version. If you’re concerned about either of these factors, talk with your ophthalmic surgeon about your options. Why doesn’t everyone offer bladeless LASIK? If bladeless LASIK works so well, why doesn’t every eye surgeon offer it? There are quite a few possible reasons for this. For one, the startup costs for advanced femtosecond lasers are high, and some providers don’t want to invest in them. Also, some surgeons use outdated lasers that work well to perform the internal portion of the operation but aren’t capable of cutting a corneal flap. Finally, performing LASIK surgery with a blade is easier. Bladeless laser eye surgery requires specific expertise, equipment and training. Talk to your LASIK eye surgery specialist about your eye surgery options You can take a suitability self-test to get a preliminary answer as to which treatment is best for you. Still, the only way to know for sure is to get an assessment from an ophthalmic surgeon. Are you ready to start enjoying a life free of the hassle of glasses and contact lenses? If you’re looking for an eye surgeon in Brisbane, Dr Matthew Russell at VSON Laser Vision Specialists can help. Call us at 07 3188 6624 or contact us online to book your free assessment to find if out if you’re a good candidate for laser eye surgery. Found this post useful? Please share! Search for: Search... FIND US IN BRISBANE 825 Ann Street Fortitude Valley, Queensland 4006