What are LASIK and intacs?

If you’re exploring options to correct your vision and reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses, you’ve likely come across terms like LASIK and Intacs. Both are advanced procedures designed to improve your eyesight, but they serve different purposes and are suited for different conditions. Let’s dive into what LASIK and Intacs are, how they work, and who might benefit from each.

What is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular and well-known refractive surgery used to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Here’s how it works:

• Creating a Corneal Flap: The surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. This flap is gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
• Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to precisely remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue. This reshaping process helps to correct the way light enters the eye and focuses on the retina, thereby improving vision.¹Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302.
• Repositioning the Flap: After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned. It naturally adheres to the underlying corneal tissue without the need for stitches.

Benefits of LASIK

• Quick Recovery: Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours and can return to normal activities shortly after the procedure. ²Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302.
• High Success Rate: LASIK has a high success rate, with many patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.³Probst, The Optimization of LASIK, International Ophthalmology Clinics 48(1):p 9-16, Winter 2008.
• Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is relatively painless, with numbing eye drops ensuring comfort throughout the surgery. ⁴Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302.

Who is a Good Candidate for LASIK?

• Age: Candidates should be at least 18 years old.
• Stable Vision: Vision should be stable for at least a year before the procedure.
• General Eye Health: Candidates should have healthy eyes, free from conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.

What are Intacs?

Intacs (Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments) are an alternative treatment primarily used for keratoconus, a progressive eye disease where the cornea becomes thin and cone-shaped, leading to distorted vision. Intacs are also sometimes used for mild myopia. Here’s how Intacs work:

• Creating a Channel: The surgeon creates a small channel in the corneal stroma (the middle layer of the cornea) using a femtosecond laser or a mechanical device.
• Inserting the Intacs: The Intacs, which are small, clear, crescent-shaped plastic inserts, are placed into the channels. These inserts help to flatten the cornea, improving its shape and reducing vision distortion.
• Adjusting the Cornea: The presence of Intacs reshapes the cornea, providing better focus and clearer vision.

Benefits of Intacs

• Reversibility: Unlike LASIK, Intacs can be removed or replaced if needed.
• Stabilises Keratoconus: Intacs help in stabilising the progression of keratoconus,⁵Colin, J. et al. (2006) European clinical evaluation: Use of intacs for the treatment of keratoconus, Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery. potentially delaying the need for a corneal transplant.
• Minimally Invasive: The procedure is relatively simple and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

Who is a Good Candidate for Intacs?

• Keratoconus Patients: Those with keratoconus who are not suitable candidates for corneal transplants.
• Mild Myopia: Patients with mild nearsightedness who prefer a reversible option.
• Healthy Corneas: Candidates should have corneas free from infections or other serious conditions.

Choosing the Right Procedure

Deciding between LASIK and Intacs depends on your specific vision needs and the underlying condition of your eyes. An experienced ophthalmologist can conduct a thorough eye examination and recommend the best course of action tailored to your individual circumstances.

Both LASIK and Intacs offer unique benefits for improving vision, but they are designed for different eye conditions. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about which procedure might be right for you.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery and want to know if you’re a good candidate for LASIK or Intacs, take our self-test today. It’s a quick and easy way to start your journey toward clearer vision.