Lasers for LASIK

LASIK lasers are used to reshape the eye during a LASIK procedure. Almost all LASIK lasers can be sorted into one of two categories: broad-beam or scanning lasers.

The LASIK lasers that fall into the broad-beam category use a laser with a relatively large diameter; such LASIK lasers take less time to perform the eye correction procedure, meaning that the broad-beam LASIK lasers are less likely to cause over correction or problems related to pupil movement during surgery. LASIK lasers in the broad-beam category used to carry a higher risk of “central islands” than LASIK lasers with a smaller diameter, but improvements in techniques and equipment largely eliminated that problem. Scanning LASIK lasers work in two different ways: slit-scanning and spot-scanning. Using relatively small beams, slit-scanning LASIK lasers are linked to a rotating device with steadily enlarging slit holes. The slit-scanning LASIK lasers scan across the holes, gradually increasing the correction to the eye. Potential advantages of slit-scanning LASIK lasers include potential for smoother ablations than possible with the broad-beam LASIK lasers, while there is also a slight increase in potential disadvantages such as over correction. Spot-scanning LASIK lasers use small laser beams scanned across the cornea to create the ablation zone. These LASIK lasers tend to have the smoothest ablations and are easily customized to the eye. Spot-scanning LASIK lasers are also highly effective at treating irregular astigmatisms.

Patients who take the time to research LASIK lasers and to thoroughly discuss these options with their doctor are more likely to choose LASIK lasers most appropriate for their needs. To learn more about the various LASIK lasers, you may want to contact an experienced LASIK surgeon.

If you would like to learn more facts about ladarvision, select a state below for a consultation.