Richard Burns, M.D.

IntraLase

How Does IntraLase Work?

The advanced IntraLase femtosecond laser is used during the first phase of LASIK surgery to create the corneal flap. First, a special suction ring is placed on the eye to prevent it from moving. Then Dr. Burns applies the IntraLase laser, which pulses across the eye in a highly precise pattern. These pulses generate tiny air bubbles at a defined depth in the corneal tissue. Dr. Burns then separates the corneal flap from the eye before adjusting the eye’s refractive error with an excimer laser.

Why IntraLase?

IntraLase offers many benefits when compared to the traditional corneal flap creation method — a special scalpel called a microkeratome. The most important advantage of using IntraLase is that it eliminates many of the LASIK side effects associated with the flap. While LASIK complications are rare, sometimes patients experience blurred vision, double vision and/or nighttime haloes after undergoing this procedure. These vision problems often occur because of flap defects — uneven flap edges or other microkeratome-caused imperfections. When the surgeon uses IntraLase, these problems are largely eliminated.
Other reasons why our San Diego IntraLase patients choose this option include:

    Improved LASIK outcomes.
    Decreased epithelial injury.
    More predictable flap thickness.
    Better astigmatic neutrality.
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Are You a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

While many patients who come to see Dr. Burns in San Diego qualify for LASIK eye surgery, the procedure is not for everyone. The following qualities make an ideal patient for LASIK Eye Surgery:

  • At least 18 years or older.

  • checkup

    Candidates should be in generally good health.

  • Eyes are healthy and free from disease or abnormalities like infections or scars.

  • Candidates’ vision needs to be consistent for at least a year before surgery date.

Some additional factors that may prevent certain patients from having LASIK surgery include thin Corneas, large Pupils, and Keratoconus (Bulging Cornea). More serious vision problems, such as advanced Glaucoma, might disqualify the potential patient altogether. Only a one-on-one consultation with an experienced LASIK specialist like Dr. Burns can help you decide if you can benefit from LASIK Eye Surgery.