What Is the Difference between Traditional LASIK and All-laser LASIK?

Traditional LASIK vs. All-laser LASIKAll-laser LASIK, also known as bladeless LASIK, is a laser vision correction procedure that enhances the safety and precision of traditional LASIK. Dr. Gregory Pamel is proud to be the first doctor in New York to offer all-laser LASIK. In this blog post, the trusted doctor discusses the differences between traditional and all-laser LASIK.

Procedure Details

LASIK reshapes the cornea to enable light entering the eye to be properly focused onto the retina, thus improving vision. The biggest difference between traditional and all-laser LASIK is how the corneal flap (used to access the inner layers of the cornea) is created. In traditional LASIK, the surgeon uses a hand-held microkeratome blade to create the flap. Although this method is safe, the use of the hand-held blade comes with possible risks and complications due to human error. All-laser LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to gently and precisely create the flap, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing the precision of this step.

Both traditional and all-laser LASIK are virtually painless and take approximately 30 minutes (15 minutes per eye) to complete. Recovery with both procedures is short; most patients are able to resume normal activities the following day and notice an improvement in their vision within days after surgery.

Comparing Results

Although traditional LASIK has a high success rate, research shows that all-laser LASIK can improve upon the quality of vision produced by traditional LASIK. In addition to improving vision and reducing dependence on prescription eyewear, all-laser LASIK can improve the ability to see clearly in low light conditions more so than traditional LASIK.

Are You a Candidate for All-laser LASIK?

You may be a suitable candidate for all-laser LASIK if you:

  • Are at least 18 years old
  • Experience blurry vision due to a refractive error
  • Have had a stable vision prescription for at least a year
  • Are in good overall health and free of eye disease or injuries

Learn More about All-laser LASIK

Are you interested in learning more about how all-laser LASIK can help restore crisp, clear vision? Dr. Pamel would be happy to discuss more with you during a one-on-one consultation. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Pamel, please contact our office by calling (212) 355-2215 or sending us an email today.

Posted in: LASIK

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