Posted by: Manhattan LASIK Center
Laser vision correction has transformed the lives of many patients. It has enabled those who were previously heavily reliant on wearing glasses or contact lenses to see clearly and enjoy great vision. There are various techniques of laser vision correction available, but one of the newest and most advanced that is on the tip of everyone’s tongue is bladeless LASIK. We are delighted to offer bladeless LASIK in Roslyn, New York at Manhattan LASIK Center.
If you haven’t come across this technique before or are unsure what makes it different from other laser vision correction procedures, you aren’t alone. Here’s everything you need to know about bladeless LASIK.
Does Bladeless LASIK Go By Any Other Names?
Yes, you may hear bladeless LASIK referred to as Femto LASIK. However, they use the same laser and refer to the same technique.
How is Bladeless LASIK Different From Conventional LASIK?
In conventional LASIK procedures, the flap that is created to access the underlying corneal tissue is made using a microkeratome blade that cuts a thin, hinged flap in the epithelium (the outer layer of the cornea). This flap is usually between 83 and 200 micrometers thick.
In bladeless LASIK, the incision into the epithelium is made with the femtosecond laser instead, meaning that there is no blade used. Using the laser ensures that the process of creating the incision is extremely fast and precise, offering patients greater comfort and superior accuracy. The laser can also be used to create much thinner and customized flaps, which helps to tailor the treatment specifically to their individual needs.
How Long Does The Bladeless LASIK Procedure Take?
Laser vision correction procedures can be performed very quickly thanks to the accuracy and speed of the lasers, and bladeless LASIK is no exception. The actual process of creating the flap and reshaping the cornea can usually be carried out in less than 15 minutes total, often less. The entire appointment, including preparation and receiving post-procedure instructions, takes place in under an hour.
Is Bladeless LASIK Painful?
One of the most common questions that we get asked about any of our procedures is whether or not the patient can expect to experience any pain. Our patient’s comfort is a priority at all times, and you will be given eye drops ahead of the procedure that will help to prevent you from experiencing any pain during the treatment. Some patients may feel some very slight discomfort, but this is completely tolerable, and many patients won’t feel anything at all. You may experience some mild tearing or the sensation of something in your eye for a few hours post-treatment, but this is completely normal.
Can I Have Both Eyes Treated With Bladeless LASIK At The Same Time?
We usually recommend that patients have both eyes treated during the same appointment. If this isn’t a possibility for you or if you would prefer to have one eye treated at a time, please let us know and we will advise you on how to best proceed. There may be an additional charge due to the need for a further appointment and additional surgical supplies.
How Quickly Will I Be Able To Go Back to Work?
Many patients want to avoid taking time off from work if they can and fortunately, there is very minimal recovery time associated with bladeless LASIK in Roslyn, NY. Although you will be asked to stay at home after your procedure and rest your eyes so that the healing process can begin, most patients are able to return to work the day after their surgery. Your bladeless LASIK surgeon in Roslyn, NY will be able to give you more information.
Will I Require Follow-up Visits?
Your bladeless LASIK surgeon will want to check on your progress following your surgery which means that you will be required to attend several follow-up visits. These will be used to ensure that your eyes have healed as they should and to assess the quality of your vision post-LASIK.
Your eye surgeon will let you know when these visits should be scheduled, but typically you can expect the visits to be the day after your procedure, a week later, a month later, and then infrequent intervals.
Am I A Good Candidate For Bladeless LASIK?
Many people are suitable candidates for bladeless LASIK in Rosalyn, NY, but before you can go ahead with the procedure, you will need to schedule a consultation. This will be used to evaluate your current prescription and the health of your eyes to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Contact our Manhattan Lasik Center Roslyn office at 212- 759-9617 today to schedule your consultation appointment.
