Advances in Laser Technology Producing Better LASIK Results

Interim results of the ongoing LASIK in U.S. Naval Aviator study indicate that advances in laser technology are producing better LASIK outcomes. The July 1, 2010 issue of Ophthalmology Times reported the findings of the study, which were presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery by Capt. David J. Tanzer, M.D.

According to Dr. Tanzer, the study is following 204 nearsighted aviators who have been treated with wavefront-guided LASIK or wavefront-optimized LASIK, with the corneal flap being created by either a 60-kHz or a 150-kHz IntraLase fematosecond laser. Creation of the corneal flap with this most advanced LASIK laser to date appears to be safer, resulting in less inflammation and no cases of photosensitivity following the LASIK procedure.

Other interim results include:

• Two weeks after all-laser LASIK was performed, 100% of those treated achieved uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20 or better and 96% had UCVA of 20/15 or better.

• One month following LASIK, 84% of the eyes in the study had UCVA of 20/12.5 and 29% could read the 20/10 line on an eye chart.

Of course, choosing to have LASIK performed using this advanced laser will cost more, so you will have to make the decision as to whether or not to pay more for possibly better results or to have standard LASIK performed. You will need to consult a LASIK surgeon near you to find out if he/she has this technology, if you are a candidate for it, and the cost of the procedure with the advanced laser.