Which LASIK Procedure Is Right for You?

Traditional LASIK has been used to successfully correct refractive errors for several decades, but newer technological advances have led to the development of a slightly different procedure called wavefront LASIK. This involves the creation of a customized map of your cornea.

While wavefront LASIK provides a more personalized correction of refractive errors, traditional LASIK can still be a good choice for many people. Both procedures are offered at the La Jolla LASIK Institute and I’d like to discuss how to decide which LASIK procedure is right for you.

What Is Wavefront LASIK?

Wavefront technology is used to measure the very minor distortions in your cornea. These tiny distortions are called higher order aberrations. Wavefront LASIK attempts to correct higher order aberrations. It is more precise than traditional LASIK, which corrects your vision based on your refractive error.

Benefits of Wavefront LASIK

The higher order aberrations treated in wavefront LASIK may be unnoticeable in many situations and may not affect your visual acuity, but you may notice them at night if you see halos around bright lights or have issues with contrast sensitivity. Because wavefront LASIK treats these issues, there may be a greater chance of achieving 20/20 vision after your procedure. You may also experience fewer side effects, such as dry eye.

Costs of Wavefront LASIK

Wavefront LASIK is generally more expensive than traditional LASIK. The procedure may also take slightly longer to complete. Many other factors are similar for traditional LASIK and wavefront LASIK.

Regardless of which procedure you opt for, it’s critical that you choose a qualified LASIK surgeon who has experience with the specific technology required for your surgery.

If you are a good candidate for traditional LASIK, it may be the most cost-effective way to reduce your reliance on glasses and contacts. People who aren’t good LASIK candidates may want to ask their LASIK surgeon about wavefront LASIK or other laser eye procedures, such as PRK.

Determining whether you are a candidate for LASIK is crucial. I invite you to come in for a consultation to determine if traditional LASIK, wavefront LASIK, or another type of vision correction surgery is best suited to your vision correction needs.

Call or email my La Jolla LASIK surgery office to schedule your free consultation.

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