Back Home >> Traditional LASIK

Traditional LASIK

LASIK is a relatively simple and painless procedure used to correct almost all levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. It has fast become the most popular vision-correction surgery, largely due to the quick recovery time and reduced side effects.

The Process

All LASIK procedures access the cornea by creating a thin flap in the outer layer of the eye. Traditional LASIK uses a microkeratome to create the flap, while Blade-Free HD IntraLASIK^SM uses an IntraLase^® FS laser. Thanks to the precision of the technique, the flap does not need to be removed. After surgery, it is simply let to fall back into place, from where it will heal without the need for stitches.

Once the flap has been created, Dr. Kleiman or Dr. Evangelista will use a precision excimer laser to reshape the cornea. This will be achieved differently depending on your type of eyesight.

If you are nearsighted, then your cornea is too steep. To correct this, the laser etches away optical tissue to flatten it out, effectively bringing the focal point of the eye onto the retina.

If you are farsighted, then your cornea is too flat. LASIK adds depth by removing tissue outside the central optical zone of the cornea.

If you have astigmatism, than your cornea is shaped like a football instead of the more effective rounded shape. LASIK can be used to round out the cornea and eliminate the unwanted extra focal points that astigmatism creates in the eye.

Things to Consider

If you’re interested in LASIK surgery, chances are you’re tired of keeping up with your glasses and contacts. While LASIK has made vision repair available to more people than ever, it is not for everyone. Review the following concerns to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Are You at Least 18 Years Old?

LASIK is a permanent procedure. However, internal changes in the eye due to growth development can alter or negate the effects of the procedure. LASIK is generally not recommended for children under 18 because they would likely lose the benefits of the surgery after a few years.

Has Your Eye Prescription Been Stable for at Least One Year?

A change in your prescription is an indication that your eyes are going through internal changes. Again, this decreases the probability of a long-term, stable improvement in eyesight.

Do You Have Health Issues with Your Eyes?

Health issues with your eyes can complicate the LASIK procedure and reduce the overall effectiveness. If you show signs of glaucoma, cataracts or other optical conditions, then LASIK may not be for you.

	How Traditional LASIK Works
	All LASIK procedures, including Blade-Free HD IntraLASIK, are a two step process. The first step is to create a hinged flap. In traditional LASIK, the flap is created with a hand-held surgical device called a microkeratome.
	In step two, Dr. Kleiman or Dr. Evangelista will use the WaveFront Map to guide the excimer laser treatment that reshapes the cornea and correct inaccuracies in your visual system.
	Finally, the hinged flap is set back into place. The flap will heal without the need for stitches.