"All Laser" LASIK

by David A. Wallace MD

Intra-Lase Femtosecond Laser © All Rights Reserved.

This is a new and extremely high-tech process using a femtosecond laser to create the LASIK flap, eliminating mechanical (blade-based) cutting.  Currently, there is only one manufacturer of this type of laser with approvals for use in the US, Irvine-based IntraLase Corp.  This technology affords precision in control of flap dimensions (diameter, depth, reproducibility, etc.) that are not always attainable with mechanical microkeratome systems.  While this is a very exciting technology, and the 'bladeless' marketing campaign has been very effective, the equipment is quite costly; so an 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 IntraLase "All-Laser" LASIK compared to other options. 

At LA-Sight we offer "All-Laser" LASIK as an option to our patients.  In my opinion, the popularity of this process will significantly increase as the cost to provide the technology decreases.  Furthermore, I feel (as of mid 2007 when this page was last edited) most LASIK in the world will be done with "all-laser" methods within about 5 years or so.

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