If you’re researching your laser eye surgery options, you may have seen bladeless LASIK also referred to as blade-free LASIK or all-laser LASIK or modern LASIK. Your eye doctor can help you choose the right procedure for you and your vision needs, but in this post, we review several benefits for a bladeless LASIK procedure.
How are flaps created for LASIK?
Traditional LASIK creates a flap in the cornea with a microkeratome. This device uses a blade to cut a thin flap in the cornea. After the flap is created it is lifted, the eye is reshaped using am excimer laser. With blade-free LASIK, a femtosecond laser uses light energy to create a similar flap, therefore no blades are ever used. This laser is very gentile to the human cornea and has precision down to 10 microns. The largest benefit of blade-free LASIK is a significant reduction in intra-operative complications.
What are the benefits of Bladeless LASIK?
There are many clinical benefits of all-laser LASIK. First, there are significantly fewer intra-operative complications. Second, there is a reduction of post-operative complications such as diffuse lamellar keratitis, flap straie, and epithelial ingrowth. Finally, because the flaps are of a more precise thickness, patient’s with greater refractive errors or thin corneas may be treated safely with LASIK. Previously, these patient may not have been good candidates for LASIK.
Is Custom Bladeless LASIK Right for Me?
At TLC Laser Eye Centers, because the benefits of bladeless LASIK are so significant, it is the only way we perform LASIK eye surgery.
Many people fear blindness more than any other disability. We use our eyes in virtually everything we do, and we depend on our vision to steer us through our daily lives.
The eye allows us to see the shapes, colors and dimensions of objects by processing the light they reflect or give off. The anatomy of the eye allows humans to see in dim light or bright light, but not in the absence of light. The eye changes light rays into electrical signals and then sends the signals to the brain. The brain interprets these electrical signals as visual images.
The eye measures approximately one inch in diameter and is set in a protective cone-shaped cavity in the skull called the orbit or socket. The orbit is surrounded by layers of soft, fatty tissue that protect the eye and allow it to turn easily. Six muscles regulate the motion of the eye. Among the more important parts of the anatomy of the human eye are the cornea, conjunctiva, iris, lens, retina, macula and the optic nerve.
Cornea
The cornea is sometimes referred to as the “window of the eye.” It provides most of the focusing power when light enters your eye. The cornea is composed of five layers of tissue. The outer layer is the epithelium. This layer is made up of highly regenerative cells that allows for fast healing of superficial injuries. The two middle layers of the cornea provide strength, shape and structural stability to the eye. The two inside layers work to keep fluid out of the cornea and maintain its optical clarity. LASIK laser vision correction is performed on this part of the eye.
Lens
The lens is the clear structure located behind the iris. Its primary function is to provide fine-tuned focusing for near vision. The lens performs this function by altering its shape to become thinner or thicker as necessary. Between the ages of 40 and 50, the lens becomes less flexible and presbyopia sets in. As people reach their 60s or 70s, the lens can become cloudy and hard (cataract formation), preventing light from entering the eye.
Pupil
The pupil is the hole in the center of your iris (the colored part of your eye). The primary function of the pupil is to control the amount of light entering your eye. When you are in a bright environment, the iris constricts, causing the pupil to become smaller to allow less light to pass through. When it is dark, the pupil expands to allow more light to reach the back of your eye.
Iris
The iris provides the color of the eye (i.e. blue/green/brown/hazel). The iris’ main role is to control the size of the pupil through contraction or expansion.
Vitreous Body
This is the clear, gel-like substance located inside the eye’s cavity. The purpose of the vitreous body is to provide a spherical shape to the eye. The vitreous may develop small clumps known as floaters. These are more common in nearsighted people than in the rest of the population.
Retina
The retina consists of fine nerve tissue that lines the inside wall of the eye and acts like the film in a camera. Its primary function is to transmit images to the brain. When your vision is perfect, the light rays coming into your eye focus precisely on this part of your eye.
Optic Nerve
The optic nerve carries electrical signals from the retina to the brain.
Sclera
The sclera is the white part of the eye’s anatomy. The sclera’s purpose is to provide structure, strength and protection to the eye.
If you’ve made the decision to pursue LASIK eye surgery, you are probably excited to take the next step toward your best vision without full time dependence on glasses and contacts. You may have researched the details on LASIK surgery itself, but what about LASIK providers? It is important to research your providers in order to find one that you feel comfortable with. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a provider, and why TLC Laser Eye Centers is your optimum LASIK provider!
Reason #1: Experienced LASIK Surgeons
The Laser eye center that you choose should only work with expert surgeons who are up-to-date on current trends and technologies in the field of LASIK eye surgery. Often, leading LASIK surgeons will maintain their expertise by seeking additional clinical training and certifications, such as those issued by American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Knowledgeable LASIK surgeons and their clinical teams will also diligently screen patients for candidacies, and only accept patients who meet all the qualifications required for the procedure.
The LASIK specialists at TLC Laser Eye Centers have performed over 2.3 million LASIK procedures. Not only do the surgeons have plenty of experiences, but also over 7,000 eye doctors have chosen TLC Laser Eye Centers for their own LASIK surgeries, demonstrating that TLC Laser Eye Centers is a trusted provider with experienced, skilled LASIK surgeons.
Reason #2: The Latest Laser Technologies
Medical technologies are always changing and improving, and a well-informed provider carefully monitors these LASIK advancements and is constantly making clinical decisions on adapting new technologies to deliver the best possible patient outcomes.
TLC Laser Eye Centers are passionate about using the latest laser technologies to care for our LASIK patients. Using modern LASIK, or bladeless LASIK, is just one example of how we provide personalized, custom LASIK treatments for each individual who comes to TLC Laser Eye Centers.
In addition to modern LASIK, TLC Laser Eye Centers also offer other vision correction procedures in order to match the best technology to each patient, including Contoura Vision and PRK. Having access to advanced patient testing instruments and multiple vision correction surgical technologies, our surgeons can determine the most suitable vision correction option to enhance our patients’ vision. At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to quality care and patient safety.
Reason #3: Affordable LASIK
There is a range of costs when you compare potential LASIK providers. Remember that the least expensive provider won’t necessarily be the best. In addition, many providers also offer financing to help achieve your goal of laser vision correction. It’s important to weigh all your considerations when you evaluate different LASIK centers. Your chosen provider should have the right surgeon and the right equipment for you to help make your LASIK dreams a reality.
TLC Laser Eye Centers offers LASIK financing options to help meet your needs. We work with insurance plans and companies to offer LASIK discounts to its members and employees. You may also be able to use funds from a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account toward your LASIK eye surgery.
Reason #4: Referrals
When searching for any type of provider, you can’t underestimate the value of referrals from trusted friends or family. LASIK surgery is very popular; chances are you know one or several people who have had LASIK and are happy with their results. In addition to inquiring with your eye doctors, don’t forget to ask your family or friends about their experiences and which provider they recommend!
Reason #5: Location
You need a provider that is close by. After all, it may not be most ideal to travel long distances before and after your quick LASIK procedure. With convenient, nationwide locations, you can find a TLC Laser Eye Center near you!
Reason #6: Commitment
Find a provider who is committed to you and your vision—not just now, but in the future as well. Your visual needs may change with time, if you were to need a retreatment or an enhancement down the road, you want to know that your provider will be available.
With the TLC Lifetime Commitment program, you can be sure that TLC Laser Eye Centers will stand by you. We are dedicated to helping you maintain the best possible vision throughout your lifetime.
Reason #7: A Solid Partner
At TLC Laser Centers, we know that no one is more familiar with your eye health than your own eye doctor. That’s why TLC affiliated Doctors of Optometry will be an important part of your LASIK team. These optometric physicians partner with TLC Laser Centers because of our record of safety and patient satisfaction, as well as our years of experience in the field. By partnering with optometrists across the country, not only can we help you make the best decisions about your LASIK procedure, but we are also in the best position to care for you, both before and after your laser eye surgery.
If you’d like to learn more about the TLC commitment to vision, schedule a free LASIK consultation at a location near you.
Many who are considering LASIK eye surgery often ask one common question: Is LASIK covered by insurance? The short answer is that LASIK is an elective surgery and not typically covered by insurance plans, but there are options available to help cover the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery. Financing options are available for LASIK patients. Ahead, we’ll review some of the most popular options for covering the cost of LASIK surgery.
Options for Financing Your Laser Eye Surgery
Insurance Savings and Partial Coverage through Insurance
While LASIK insurance coverage is rare, it’s important to note that some insurance plans and employers do provide partial coverage for LASIK surgery. TLC Laser Eye Centers work with many major vision insurance providers to offer LASIK savings, and the savings apply on the day of the procedure so that you don’t have to wait for reimbursement. The TLC team will work with you to make sure you’re getting the most savings possible.
TLC Laser Eye Centers offer financing options for laser eye surgery patients. We work with CareCredit, a credit card created specifically for healthcare needs which offers special financing options. If you have specific questions about the financing options available, you can learn more at your local TLC Laser Eye Center.
Health Savings Accounts
A Health Savings Account (HSA)is a tax-exempt trust or custodial account, where you can save funds to cover qualifying medical procedures. Enrolling in an HSA requires you to meet requirements set forth by the IRS, and having a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is a key step in qualifying.
If you’re interested in using an HSA to save for medical needs, it really helps to do your research and plan ahead.
Flexible Spending Accounts
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA)requires sponsorship from your employer, and allows the account holder to pay for certain medical expenses on a pre-tax basis. FSAs can be used to cover eligible elective procedures including laser eye surgery, along with a number of other common medical needs.
Just as with an HSA, using an FSA to cover medical needs may be easier with good planning. You can use TLC’s free FSA savings calculator for an easy way to explore how it all works.
If you have any questions about LASIK insurance coverage, financing, or payment options, the TLC team is here to help you learn more. Schedule your free LASIK consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center to learn more about financing for laser eye surgery, discuss the benefits of LASIK, and find the options that work for you.
Glasses, contacts, surgery? With so many options for correcting vision these days, how do you determine what is best for your eyes and lifestyle? In this overview, we break down the pros and cons of today’s vision correction methods—from old standbys like eyeglasses to cutting-edge surgical procedures—to help you make a clear-eyed decision.
Non-Surgical Vision Correction:
Eyeglasses
Pros
Non-Invasive: Eyeglasses offer a non-invasive and easily reversible method of vision correction.
Versatility: Suitable for correcting various refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
Fashion Accessory: Eyeglasses have evolved into a fashion statement, enabling individuals to express their style through a wide range of frames.
Cons
Peripheral Distortion: Some individuals may experience peripheral distortion or reflections, affecting the clarity of vision. Lenses may also fog when transitioning between different temperatures.
Limited Peripheral Vision: Frames can limit peripheral vision, which may be a concern in certain activities.
Weight and Discomfort: Wearing glasses can become uncomfortable due to their weight and pressure on the bridge of the nose.
Contact Lenses—Convenient But Require Care
Pros
Natural Appearance: Contact lenses provide a more natural appearance without the visible presence of eyeglasses.
Unrestricted Field of View: Unlike glasses, contact lenses don’t obstruct peripheral vision.
Suitable for Active Lifestyles: Ideal for individuals with active lifestyles or those who find glasses inconvenient.
Cons
Maintenance Required: Regular cleaning and proper hygiene practices are necessary to prevent eye infections.
Dry Eye Disease: Some individuals may experience dry eyes as a result of wearing contact lenses.
Risk of Infections: Incorrect use or poor hygiene can lead to serious eye infections.
Environmental Concerns: The disposal of contact lenses and their packaging contributes to environmental waste.
Refractive Surgery:
Modern LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) Custom Bladeless—Most Popular Surgery
Pros
Rapid Results: LASIK often provides rapid visual recovery, with many patients experiencing improved vision within the first several hours to a day.
Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, LASIK carries some risks, including infection, dry eyes, and changes in vision.
Cost: LASIK can be a significant financial investment compared to non-surgical methods.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):
Pros
No Flap Creation:PRK doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap-related complications.
Suitable for Thin Corneas: PRK may be a better option for individuals with thinner corneas.
Cons
Extended Recovery Time: PRK typically has a longer recovery period compared to LASIK.
Discomfort During Healing: Some discomfort and light sensitivity may be experienced during the initial healing phase.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):
Pros
No Flap Creation: SMILE involves a small incision rather than a corneal flap, potentially reducing complications.
Potential Preservation of Corneal Strength: Early studies indicate that the SMILE procedure preserves more corneal tissue, benefiting the structural integrity of the cornea.
Cons
Limited Availability: SMILE may not be as widely available as LASIK or PRK.
Similar complications to LASIK: In studies, complications can be similar to LASIK, including infection, dry eyes, and changes in vision.
Cost: The SMILE procedure can cost significantly more than LASIK or PRK.
EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens):
Pros
Reversible Procedure:EVO ICL is an implantable lens that can be removed if necessary, making the procedure reversible.
High Refractive Correction: EVO ICL is suitable for individuals with high degrees of myopia or hyperopia.
Cons
Invasive Procedure: EVO ICL involves a surgical procedure to implant the lens in the eye.
Potential for Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications, including infection or changes in intraocular pressure, endothelial cell loss, and corneal decompensation.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K):
Pros
Non-Surgical: Ortho-K involves the use of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea overnight without surgery.
Daytime Freedom: Individuals can enjoy better vision during the day without the need for glasses or lenses.
Cons
Temporary Effects: The effects of Ortho-K are temporary, and consistent lens wear is required for sustained results.
Risk of Infection: Proper hygiene practices are crucial to prevent eye infections associated with contact lens use.
Vision Instability: Vision may change throughout the day depending on the frequency of use.
Comfort: It may be challenging to sleep with a rigid contact lens on the eye.
The vision correction arena offers more excellent options than ever. But determining what works best is a personal decision based on your eyes, budget, and lifestyle. With an understanding of today’s methods, you can zero in on the choice that allows you to see life most clearly. Choosing the most suitable method involves careful consideration of the pros and cons associated with each approach, along with consultation with a qualified eye care professional. Whether opting for the convenience of eyeglasses, the flexibility of contact lenses, or the transformative effects of refractive surgery, individuals can make informed decisions to achieve optimal visual clarity and comfort.
Are you considering the benefits of LASIK eye surgery, and wondering what type of procedure is right for you? There are many types of laser eye surgery available, with different tools, technology, and techniques to meet the unique needs of LASIK patients. Bladeless LASIK eye surgery is a common alternative to traditional LASIK, with many similarities and a few key differences. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at how bladeless vision correction works, and what LASIK patients can expect from the procedure.
Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery: How Blade Free LASIK Works, and What to Expect
Learning about laser eye surgery options online is a great first step, but it’s important to note that only your laser eye surgeon can recommend the right procedure for your unique needs. So, if you haven’t scheduled your free laser eye surgery consultation yet, now is a great time to do so.
The first step toward learning more about bladeless LASIK is explaining some of the lingo:
Also Known As…
During your research you may find that bladeless LASIK is referred to by a few different names, but each refers to the same procedure. Some of the common names for bladeless LASIK include blade free LASIK, and all-laser LASIK. You may also see a brand name integrated with one of those common terms for bladeless LASIK.
How Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery Works
If you’re learning about laser eye surgery, you may already be familiar with the concept of the LASIK flap, which is created at the start of the procedure and allows your LASIK eye surgeon to address vision problems at the correct level of the eye. During traditional LASIK procedures, the flap is created by an instrument called a microkeratome, which is an oscillating diamond blade.
Instead of using a microkeratome, bladeless laser eye surgery relies on the use of a specialized laser to create the LASIK flap. This is where the terms “bladeless” and “all-laser” LASIK come from, as well as the key difference between bladeless and traditional LASIK.
By using the most advanced LASIK technology, your laser eye surgeon is able to map the eye, based on the unique structure of each individual’s eye, to create a custom LASIK flap.
After the flap is created, the bladeless LASIK procedure works very similarly to traditional LASIK. Most importantly, bladeless surgery significantly reduces intra and post-operative complications making it a safer procedure.
What to Expect from Bladeless LASIK Surgery
While blade free LASIK has a few key differences from traditional LASIK, the preparation, procedure, and healing process share many similarities. The process begins with a visit to your local TLC Laser Eye Center for a free consultation.
During your free consultation, your laser eye surgery specialist will review your vision correction needs, and discuss your laser eye surgery options.
Before the bladeless vision correction procedure, you’ll have a pre-operative visit, which makes specific measurements of your individual eye. This is when much of the “customization” is done for the procedure.
On the day of your procedure, your laser eye surgery team will prepare you for surgery, and after the procedure there will be a brief recovery period. Bladeless LASIK is an outpatient procedure, which means that you get to go home the same day.
The recovery process begins with rest on the day of surgery, and continues with follow-up visits to check on your progress. As healing progresses and vision stabilizes, there is a longer gap between each follow-up visit.
While every patient is unique, most patients see very well the next day. As with any surgery it takes a time to heal. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within a few days and the eye is completely healed in 3 months. You are seen for scheduled visits along the way. Overall, you may notice many similarities between bladeless and traditional LASIK, along with the differences that set each procedure apart.
Scheduling your free laser eye surgery consultation is the best way to learn more about bladeless vision correction, and the laser eye surgery options available. You can schedule your consultation by calling your local TLC Laser Eye Center, or filling out a quick form online.
Digital screens are everywhere. We work with screens, play with screens, and look at screens while we’re waiting in line. All of that screen-time comes with potential downsides, and may take a toll on our eyes over time. To try to minimize the negative effects and digital eye strain of extensive time looking at screens, many eye doctors suggest using the 20-20-20 rule as part of your eye health care. The catchy name makes it easy to remember, and ahead we’ll dive into the details of exactly how the 20-20-20 rule works.
Eye Care and Digital Eye Strain
What is the 20-20-20 rule?
Whether you’re using a phone, computer, tablet or watching TV, the idea behind the 20-20-20 rule is actually very simple: every 20 minutes that you’re looking at a screen, take a break and stare at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. That’s it. You don’t have to worry about walking off the distance, or pulling out a tape measure to make sure that the object is exactly 20 feet away. The idea is to pick an object that is close to 20 feet away.
The trick is making sure that you remember to do it every 20 minutes when you’re using a digital screen, and making sure that you look at the object for at least 20 seconds. This is a rule that you can follow almost anywhere, whether using a screen for productivity or enjoyment.
What about activities that don’t require a screen?
Screen time isn’t the only activity that can cause eye strain, and the 20-20-20 rule may apply in other situations, as well. If you’re reading a paper book, writing, or doing work that requires you to focus your vision consistently on very small details, then it may also be a good idea to give your eyes a rest using the 20-20-20 rule. No matter what activity you’re doing, the basics behind the 20-20-20 rule remain the same when considering your eye health care. Take a break every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Do I really have to do it every 20 minutes?
When you’re working, reading, or watching a video, it’s easy to get caught up in what you’re doing. But yes, it’s a good idea to stay on schedule with the 20-20-20 rule whenever possible. The good news is that most of the devices you’ll be using will also have built in timers you can use to set reminders. Setting 20-20-20 reminders on your computer and phone is a great way to stay on track, and eventually taking those breaks simply becomes a habit.
Why follow the 20-20-20 rule?
Humans normally blink about 15 times per minute, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. However, when using a computer or other digital screens, we may only blink about one-third as often, which can lead to eye strain.
Digital eye strain caused by extensive screen use may be connected to certain vision problems, and can cause unpleasant symptoms like dry eyes, headache, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue. So in addition to potentially helping with long-term eye health issues, the 20-20-20 rule can also be an easy way to help limit some of the most common symptoms that come with extensive digital screen time.
If you have any questions about the 20-20-20 rule, how it works, or how it applies to you, speak with your eye health care provider to learn more. If you don’t have an eye doctor, use our doctor search to find a TLC Affiliate Eye Doctor near you. It’s a small step to take, and it may make a big difference.
One of the most common questions about LASIK eye surgery is whether the procedure can be considered for older people, and the good news is that the key points of LASIK candidacy are the same for seniors as they are for anyone else. If you have a stable vision prescription, healthy eyes, and are in good overall health, then you may be a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. However, it is true that our eyes and visual needs change quite a bit throughout our lives, so there are a few special considerations to deliberate when thinking about laser eye surgery later in life.
The only real age limit for a LASIK procedure, per the FDA, is that each surgical candidate should be at least 18 years of age. Our eyes and corresponding prescription requirements may change frequently at that age, and it’s important to wait until that tendency to change stabilizes before having laser eye surgery. There are a few other developmental milestones in life that often motivate people to consider laser eye surgery, beginning in early adulthood.
The most common range for LASIK patients is between 20 and 45 years old. Vision prescriptions often stabilize in the mid-twenties, so this is a natural time for people to consider LASIK eye surgery.
Next up is the 45 to 55-year age range, the time when many people begin to feel the early effects of presbyopia, which is related to the natural aging process and causes difficulty with near vision. While LASIK may be a treatment option for some presbyopia patients, we certainly have more vision correction technologies to offer our presbyopic patients, such as Monovision.
Beyond age 55, cataracts may start to develop even though they may not affect your vision at early stages. When cataract is determined to be the main reason for changes in your vision, cataract extraction surgery becomes the preferred method of treatment to improve your vision instead of LASIK eye surgery.
The basics for LASIK candidacy include a stable vision prescription for at least one year, no eye diseases, and good overall health. If you’ve got those things, then you’re off to an excellent start.
It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health. Not every potential health issue for seniors impacts the eyes, and speaking with a LASIK specialist is the best way to learn how laser eye surgery fits in with various health needs.
Regardless of your age, are you curious whether LASIK eye surgery is the right fit for your vision health needs? The easiest way to find out is to schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialist, where you can determine if you’re a candidate and learn more about what laser eye surgery can do for you.
