We live in interesting times. In addition to the breathless array of choices consumers have every day, we also have plenty of options when it comes to our health. That includes which vision correction approach is ideal for those of us who rely on glasses and contacts.
If you’re looking to ditch your daily dependency on corrective lenses, you’ve probably encountered information about the various forms of LASIK and wondered which to choose. Let’s “lift the flap” on this mystery for a clearer view …
What is LASIK?
LASIK is an acronym for Laser-Assisted in-SItu Keratomileusis. The procedure uses lasers to reshape the cornea to better refract light onto the retina for clear vision, and it is ideal for correcting:
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism (distorted vision due to irregular eye shape)
- and Presbyopia (age-related loss of reading vision)
Both traditional and bladeless LASIK involve using a precise, high-tech laser to reshape the lens. Where the two approaches differ is in how the surgeon performs each step of the 2-step LASIK treatment.
Basic Manual LASIK vs. All-Laser, SoftTouch LASIK
With basic manual LASIK, a device called a microkeratome blade is used in the first step of the procedure. By contrast, All-Laser SoftTouch LASIK makes use of precision lasers throughout both steps of the procedure, with no blades involved. Due to the accuracy of the lasers Dr. Khambati utilizes, we are able to better customize the treatment to each patient’s individual needs. What’s more, our advanced technology allows Dr. Khambati to complete each step in a matter of seconds, with patients typically reporting only a slight pressure to the surface of the eye (hence the name “SoftTouch”).
ZEISS SMILE Laser Vision Correction
Unlike LASIK, the ZEISS SMILE procedure is a one-step vision correction treatment. With ZEISS ReLEx SMILE, a LASIK technology we use here at Lake Lazer Eye Center, tiny pulses of femtosecond laser pass through the outer portion of the cornea to create a lenticule (corresponding to the refractive error to be corrected) which is then removed. The lenticule doesn’t need to be replaced, and this microscopic change is what changes the eye to provide crisp, clear vision. This procedure offers several benefits to our patients:
- ZEISS SMILE treatment requires only one laser.
- Less invasive than other procedures.
- Post-surgical discomfort is minimal.
- Patients can get back to normal activities faster, including wearing eye makeup.
Who should consider ZEISS SMILE vision correction?
One primary advantage of the ZEISS SMILE procedure is the quick recovery time, making it a great choice for patients who need as little down time as possible. (This could include members of the military, police, first responders and frequent travelers, for example.)
Great candidates for ZEISS SMILE may also include:
- Individuals who require a high degree of correction
- Patients with dry eye disease
- Former contact lens users or those with corneal damage
If you’re considering permanent vision correction, start with a thorough eye examination. Your doctor can work with you to determine which procedure is most appropriate for your vision needs, eye structure, budget and lifestyle.
Lake Lazer Eye Center offers convenient and affordable payment plans for SoftTouch LASIK and the ZEISS SMILE procedure, and Dr. Khambati has helped thousands of people from all over the world escape the restrictions of glasses and contacts. In the event that you’re not a candidate for vision correction, we’ll assist you with a contact lens evaluation or a selection of designer and specialty eyewear.
