IntraLASIK Vision Correction FAQs

IntraLASIK vision correction is an exciting new procedure that utilizes the revolutionary IntraLase® laser instead of the microkeratome tool used to create the corneal flap in the conventional LASIK procedure. While vision correction procedures can be incredibly beneficial to those with poor vision or those who are simply tired of going through life hassled by corrective lenses, it is imperative that potential IntraLASIK candidates educate themselves prior to meeting with a surgeon.

Are IntraLASIK, Bladeless LASIK, IntraLase®, and All-Laser LASIK the same thing?

IntraLASIK, Bladeless LASIK, IntraLase®, and All-Laser LASIK all refer to the same procedure, a new form of LASIK vision correction that eliminates an aspect of the procedure thought to hold many people back from undergoing LASIK. The original LASIK procedure utilized a microkeratome, an extremely precise metal blade, to cut the corneal flap needed to expose the inner cornea. IntraLASIK, however, avoids the microkeratome in favor of revolutionary all-laser technology.

Instead of a metal blade, the new procedure uses a state-of-the-art IntraLase® laser to create the flap, leading some people to describe the surgery as Bladeless LASIK. After the flap is created with the IntraLase®, an excimer laser is used to correct the shape of cornea, giving rise to another name: All-Laser LASIK.

What is the difference between IntraLASIK and Custom LASIK?

IntraLASIK vision correction eliminates the need to use a precise metal blade – a microkeratome – to cut the corneal flap that is necessary to gain access to the inner cornea. Instead, IntraLASIK uses the special IntraLase® laser, an ultra-precise, computer-controlled laser to form the flap. This laser creates thousands of microscopic bubbles under the corneal tissue that link together to create the perforated flap. The excimer laser is used to correct corneal imperfections following this initial step.

Custom LASIK vision correction, on the other hand, utilizes Wavefront™ technology to correct corneal flaws not addressed by typical LASIK. Wavefront™ technology allows surgeons to individualize the laser vision correction process to the patient’s unique corneal flaws by creating a three-dimensional map of the eye. The map acts as a guide, allowing for exact amounts of tissue removal and much more accurate results.

Is IntraLASIK safer than traditional LASIK vision correction?

Traditional LASIK vision correction is typically a very safe procedure for good LASIK candidates. When performed by an experienced LASIK surgeon, vision is improved in 95 percent of patients. While the majority of complications occur due to the microkeratome, even those complications occur in no more than 10 percent of cases.

As for IntraLASIK vision correction, there have been no reports of serious or sight-threatening complications despite the fact that the procedure has been performed more than 500,000 times world-wide. The use of the IntraLase® laser to create the corneal flap removes any risks that are associated with the microkeratome, making all-laser LASIK an even safer procedure than traditional LASIK.

Can the IntraLase® laser be used during both Custom LASIK and traditional LASIK surgery?

The IntraLase® laser can in fact be used during both Custom LASIK and traditional LASIK procedures. The IntraLase® laser is only used to cut the corneal flap and can thus be used with any type of LASIK surgery.

What are the benefits of IntraLASIK vision correction?

In addition to the elimination of microkeratome-related complications, there are severel other IntraLASIK vision correction benefits over the traditional LASIK procedure. Research has shown that undergoing LASIK with the IntraLase® laser brings about better vision and a less risky recovery period than what would be achieved with a microkeratome.

Are there complications associated with the IntraLase® laser?

As with any surgical procedure, the use of the IntraLase® laser does carry its own set of risks and complications. One of the IntraLASIK risks to note has been the reported occurrence of unusual light sensitivity (photophobia) in cases that seem to be tied to use of IntraLase®. According to most publications, this complication is uncommon – occurring in as few as one percent of all cases. IntraLASIK vision correction also carries a slight risk of flap wrinkles, though the risk is substantially reduced in comparison to traditional LASIK vision correction.

Why does IntraLASIK cost more than traditional LASIK vision correction surgery?

The cost of IntraLASIK all-laser LASIK surgery is usually higher than traditional LASIK vision correction costs because doctors must cover the cost of the IntraLase® laser equipment. The higher price also reflects the increased safety profile of a LASIK procedure using a laser rather than a microkeratome to cut the corneal flap.

Does insurance cover IntraLASIK vision correction?

The majority of vision insurance plans do not cover refractive surgeries, including IntraLASIK vision correction, because they are classified as “cosmetic” procedures. Some employers do, however, make special arrangements with a particular LASIK or refractive surgery practice to offer their employees a discounted price. In addition, paying for a refractive procedure may qualify you for a tax deduction.

Use DocShop to Find a LASIK Surgeon in Your Region

When choosing a LASIK surgeon to perform your IntraLASIK or traditional LASIK vision correction procedure, the most important factor should be your ability to trust the doctor. With the use of the IntraLase® laser especially, the doctor’s training and extent of experience can make a substantial difference. Use DocShop to find the right LASIK surgeon in your area.