All Laser LASIK

by David A. Wallace MD

Intra-Lase Femtosecond Laser © All Rights Reserved.

This is an extremely high-tech process using a femtosecond laser to create the LASIK flap, eliminating mechanical (blade-based) cutting.  The manufacturers of these systems (IntraLase and Ziemer) claim that this technology affords somewhat greater precision in control of flap depth compared to that attainable with mechanical flap-making systems.  While this is a very exciting technology, and the 'bladeless' marketing campaign has been very effective, the equipment is quite costly; so a significant added fee is passed along to the consumer. 

The real benefits may be small compared to current-technology mechanical microkeratomes.  Reasonable professionals including very experienced LASIK surgeons will differ in their opinions about the merits of "All-Laser" LASIK compared to other options. 

At LA Sight we offer "All-Laser LASIK" as an option to our patients, but we do not recommend this care for the overwhelmning majority of those we treat.  We did have an IntraLase laser in our center from about April '08 through December '09, and found the technology to be very good, but not better than, mechanical keratome systems that we also use.  Frankly it comes down to a matter of cost, and we could not justify adding about $350 - $375 per eye in "up-charge" for all-laser care when the results were absolutely as good using conventional microkeratomes.

We will carefully explain the potential merits of this technology to you at the time of your consultation.