The Intralase laser is a new technology used to perform the first step in LASIK - the preparation of the corneal flap. In LASIK, the pancake-like flap of the cornea acts to preserve the surface epithelial cells to promote quick healing and recovery of vision. Taking advantage of an advanced laser technique using a very short pulse, high speed femtosecond laser, the Intralase creates the flap in a uniquely precise mannner. The procedure is known as IntraLASIK, or more popularly as All-Laser or Bladeless LASIK. Here at the Cornea and Laser Eye Institute we use the newly introduced 4th generation 60 kHz Intralase FS laser.

The Intralase laser places over a million microscopic, low energy spots which split the cornea layers to prepare the flap to meticulous specifications. Intralase is performed with numbing eyedrops and is a generally comfortable procedure. Laser application takes less than a minute. The corneal flap then is carefully lifted by the surgeon, exposing interior layers of the corneal structure.

After preparation of the flap, a second laser (the LADARVision excimer laser) sculpts the corneal tissue by removing a small amount of tissue from the corneal bed beneath the flap (analogous to removing a "tissue contact lens").

The IntraLASIK procedure concludes when the corneal flap is repositioned. When the flap is replaced, it lies in the bed of excimer laser removed tissue, causing the surface to change shape with the effect of decreasing nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

At the end of the procedure, you will be asked to keep your eyes closed for 30 minutes. You will go home with clear, protective eye goggles and use eyedrops to avoid infection and control inflammation for one week.

Most people are generally comfortable after the IntraLASIK procedure. Vision usually begins to improve the morning after the treatment. Most people can drive and work the next day depending on their occupation; however, you will be seen for an examination on that day. Restrictions after IntraLASIK include (1) no eye makeup for 3 days, (2) no swimming for 2 weeks, and (3) no eye rubbing for 2 weeks. Sports goggles should be worn when doing contact or projectile sports for one month.

Although vision improves in the first day or two, there may be changes over the next few weeks or months. You will generally see us for visits one day, one week, and 3 months after the procedure. Some patients who are overcorrected or undercorrected can be retreated with "enhancement" procedures after the 3 month examination.

Other Applications: Intralase is also used to prepare corneal channels for the Intacs procedure. It may also be used in a number of rehabilitative procedures of the cornea, such as partial thickness corneal transplantation in patients with a variety of corneal problems.