You’ve probably heard of LASIK surgery but not its state-of-the-art variant; No-Cut LASIK. You may be considering having one or the other, but what exactly are these procedures and what is the difference between them? LASIK (an acronym for Laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a treatment that uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea (the clear outermost part of the eye in front of the pupil and the iris).  It corrects vision for people who are dependent on glasses or contact lenses because they are nearsighted, farsighted, have an astigmatism or are presbyopic. The laser reshapes the cornea to correct the refractive error and allow light traveling through the eye to properly focus onto the retina, in the back of the eye.

A traditional LASIK procedure requires making a flap on the cornea which is then lifted and moved aside so that the surgeon may use the laser on the corneal bed below.  After the laser does its part, the flap is set back in place and held down with the eye’s own hydrostatic pressure so there’s no need for suturing.

No-Cut LASIK is an improvement on the older procedure and requires no cutting whatsoever.  The superficial layer of cells on the cornea is simply removed.  The laser then reshapes the cornea to correct the refractive error just like in the other procedure and that’s it.  At the end of the treatment protective contact lenses are placed on the eyes for a few days to insure proper healing.

What will happen in the course of my evaluation?

• Your corneas will be mapped to assess topography and corneal thickness. Other tests will usually include refraction, testing eye pressure and dilation.
• Belmont will review your medical history do a slit lamp exam and complete your evaluation. She will then discuss treatment options with you, explain what each of these entails and answer all your questions and concerns.
• Finally, you’ll schedule your procedure date!

Here are a few ways you’ll prepare for each of these steps:

• Don’t wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses for at 1 week before your evaluation.
• If you wear other types of contact lenses don’t wear these for at least two days before your evaluation.
• Even if you’re not totally dependent on them, bringing your eyeglasses to your evaluation allows the doctor to review your previous prescription, so bring them along.
• On the day of your procedure make sure to have a light meal before heading out to your appointment.
• Fill out your prescriptions and bring all the medications with you on the day of your treatment. DO NOT use any of our medications before arrival.
• Don’t wear any eye makeup or jewelry.
• If you find yourself not feeling well the morning of your procedure be sure to call Dr. Belmont and let her know. She will determine if the procedure should be postponed.

The most important thing? Speak with Dr. Belmont about any concerns and relax because you’ve made an awesome decision to have her give you the gift of better sight free from dependence on glasses or contact lenses!