Step 1

Patients undergoing UltraLASIK are given an oral sedation prior to surgery and are typically pleasantly surprised at their comfort level during the surgery. Patients usually experience minimal to no discomfort both during and after their surgery.

The procedure begins by instilling very effective anesthetic (numbing) drops. This helps to provide a very comfortable environment for the patient. UltraLASIK uses the most advanced laser technology to create an ultra-thin flap on the surface of the cornea. The 60 KHz laser beam passes harmlessly through the outer layers of the cornea to an exact focal point. The laser uses high-speed pulses to gently separate the layers of the cornea at a precise depth. The increased accuracy will allow your surgeon to place the flap at the optimal position for your individualized treatment. This process takes about 20 seconds. The flap is then gently lifted back to expose the subsurface of the cornea.

Step 2

UltraLASIK uses the Visx CustomVue laser to go beyond correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Prior you your procedure, your surgeon will take measurements of the optical imperfections unique to each eye. These measurements function as a roadmap for your treatment allowing the laser to precisely correct the focus of your vision.

At this point, cool pulses from the excimer laser remove an exact pre-determined amount of tissue (less than the thickness of a human hair) from the center of the cornea. The precision of the excimer laser removes tissue by disrupting the bonds between the atoms. The laser treatment lasts approximately 30-45 seconds.

 
Step 3

Lastly, the flap is returned to its original position where it quickly begins to adhere to the underlying tissue, acting as a protective bandage. This natural bonding process occurs without discomfort and generally takes 3-5 minutes. 

After Your Surgery

Postoperatively patients are asked to go home and rest for several hours following surgery this allows for a quicker recovery period. Following surgery patients will be asked to use an antibiotic eye drop for approximately 1 week; this is to minimize the risk of a complication.

Patients will also be required to refrain from swimming for 2 weeks, wearing eye makeup for 1 week and avoid contact sports for several weeks. During your preoperative visit we will review all requirements in detail and answer any questions you have.

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