The IntraLase FS Laser provides an all-laser approach to LASIK surgery. It uses the laser to create the corneal flap instead of a microkeratome. Not only does it have a new level of safety assurance, but the computer-controlled laser provides unprecedented control and the ability to customize the flap for each patient. Conventionally, a microkeratome has been used to create the corneal flap. This is a mechanical, hand-held instrument that can sometimes contribute to LASIK complications. Though the complication rates with the microkeratome are very low, the IntraLase is extremely useful when it is necessary to create a thin and symmetrical flap if the patient has a thin cornea prior to LASIK. Please visit our Glossary of LASIK Terms to find out more about these techniques.
IntraLASIK is the term used when IntraLase is used in conjunction with LASIK. IntraLase uses a laser beam that is focused into a small spot of energy. This energy passes harmlessly through the outermost layers of the cornea until it reaches the exact measurement within the corneal layer needed to make the flap.
The Microkeratome method still produces excellent results, but some patients prefer the added precision and safety of IntraLase.
IntraLASIK is a safer procedure that eliminates the potential of complications from mechanical microkeratomes.
IntraLASIK allows correction of higher refractive errors especially those with thin corneas because of the ability to make precise shallow flaps.
IntraLASIK significantly adds precision and predictability by using an all-laser procedure.
IntraLASIK creates a better fitting flap, when put back into place to form a tighter seal. This makes dislocation after the procedure more difficult.
Your vision is unique - as personal as your fingerprint or your DNA. WaveScan technology provides Dr. Breaux with a map of your vision that is utilized during the LASIK procedure and produces superior results.
After scheduling your complimentary LASIK consultation, you will meet with Dr. Breaux at his Pinole or Oakland office to obtain your eye history and to perform a screening eye exam to determine if you are a good candidate for the CustomVue procedure. He will discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure with you. A WaveScan measurement will be taken to map the unique characteristics of your vision. With this map, Dr. Breaux will be able to accurately assess whether you're a good candidate for laser vision correction.
Anyone who is considering laser vision correction should obtain a WaveScan measurement as the first step. Along with the other diagnostic tests that Dr. Breaux and his staff perform, an individualized treatment plan can then be developed to address your unique vision needs. Once it is confirmed that you are a good candidate, we will schedule you for a CustomVue procedure.
On procedure day, you will be seated in a reclined position. Anesthetic drops will be placed in your eyes and a flap will be created on your cornea. Your individualized treatment information is transferred from the WaveScan to the laser in order to drive the CustomVue procedure. The actual laser procedure typically takes several seconds.
After CustomVue, you will notice results the next day, and your vision will continue to improve over the next few days. Typically, you will be scheduled for a follow-up visit the next day, again in about a week, and again around a month after the initial procedure.
