LASIK
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis – laser ablation within corneal tissue) is a type of refractive laser eye surgery. Unlike PRK/ASA (Advanced Surface Ablation), which is photorefractive keratectomy, LASIK surgery does not require the removal of the epithelium, which means the patient experiences no pain and the eyes heal faster.
An innovative treatment method that effectively corrects vision defects
What is LASIK?
If both eyes are to be operated on during the same procedure, LASIK is the most appropriate method.
The invention of the LASIK method is attributed to Ioannis Pallikaris. In this method, a corneal flap is created using a microkeratome, and the correction itself is performed with an excimer laser.
Variations of the LASIK Method
In the LASIK method with a microkeratome (scalpel) – the traditional method – an incision in the cornea is made using a micro-precision blade. An ultrathin flap is carefully lifted, and then the inner part of the cornea is treated with an excimer laser and reshaped so that the focal point is optimally positioned on the retina. Afterwards, the flap is repositioned, and the cornea heals within a few days.
LASIK
Variations of the LASIK Method
FEMTO-LASIK (All-Laser-LASIK)
In the traditional LASIK laser treatment method, the cornea is cut with a scalpel (microkeratome), which carries certain risks. In the modern FEMTO-LASIK method, the cornea is opened with a high-precision femtosecond laser.
SBK-LASIK
In the traditional method, the lifted corneal flap has a thickness of 130 to 180 microns – in the SBK-LASIK method, it is only 100 microns. This is an advantage of the special Carriazo-Pendular microkeratome head. Thanks to such precise manipulation of the cornea, individuals who were previously not eligible for laser vision correction due to a thin cornea, high myopia, or a combination of both, can now benefit from the SBK-LASIK method.
EPI-LASIK
In this variation of the method, the surgeon uses an epikeratome – a tool that allows laser correction on the very surface of the cornea, without interfering with deeper layers. Unlike the traditional LASIK method, the epithelial flap is not cut here, thereby minimizing trauma to the corneal stroma. EPI-LASIK is therefore recommended for individuals whose lifestyle may involve an increased risk of eye injury – athletes, soldiers, police officers, etc. This method is safe for patients with corneas that are too thin, which would disqualify them from other laser methods.
Procedure Course
In the LASIK method with a microkeratome (scalpel), an incision in the cornea is made using a micro-precision blade. An ultrathin flap is carefully lifted, and then the inner part of the cornea is treated with an excimer laser and reshaped so that the focal point is optimally positioned on the retina. Afterwards, the flap is repositioned, and the cornea heals within a few days.
The mechanical LASIK method, where the flap is formed with a scalpel, is increasingly less common due to safety concerns. The more modern Femto-LASIK, which involves an incision made by a laser rather than a blade, is already standard practice at our clinic.
Preparation
Before starting the procedure, we thoroughly disinfect the patient’s facial area. Then, we administer anesthetic eye drops to the patient, and the eyelids are held open with a speculum. During the procedure, we ask the patient to look at a flashing light.
Scalpel Incision
In the first phase of the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the cornea using a micro-precision scalpel, creating a thin flap approximately 0.1 mm thick. At this stage, the patient may feel pressure on the eye and experience momentary darkness.
Excimer Laser Correction
The previously exposed cornea is reshaped with a computer-controlled laser in a few seconds. This is painless – the patient may only hear the sound of the laser and possibly smell the cornea. The surgeon performing the procedure continuously monitors the laser’s use with a microscope.
Procedure Completion
In the final phase of the procedure, the previously created corneal flap is repositioned. To protect the surgical area, the surgeon places specialized contact lenses with high oxygen permeability on the patient’s eyes. These are removed the day after the procedure.
Is laser vision correction painful?
What influences the choice of the appropriate procedure for our patients?
LASIK
Indications and Recommendations
LASIK Laser Vision Correction
LASIK is most effective for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
The most common range of corrected defects:
- myopia from -0.5 to -10 diopters,
- hyperopia from +0.5 to +4.0 diopters,
- astigmatism up to 6.0 cylinders.
The given range is approximate; the decision regarding the feasibility and safety of the procedure is always made by the doctor based on a detailed medical history and precise preliminary examinations.
Contraindications for Laser Eye Surgery
- unstable vision defect – age above 18 or 21 years depending on the clinic,
- eye diseases (glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, corneal scars and spots, keratoconus, pathological changes of the fundus, eye inflammation, and others)
- metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes),
- allergies and atopy,
- rheumatic diseases,
- autoimmune diseases with significant weakening of the body,
- infections,
- pregnancy.
Complications after Laser Vision Correction
The risk of complications after laser vision correction is estimated at approximately 2%. The more modern the method, the lower the risk of their occurrence. The most common complications include:
- light sensitivity.
- reduced visual acuity with optimal defect correction,
- dry eye syndrome,
- halo effect (mainly at night; wearing anti-reflective glasses for driving is recommended in such cases),
- corneal inflammation,
We are a Schwind
Reference Center
SwissLaser is a laser reference center for Schwind. We are experts in
laser eye correction with international experience. We use
modern, certified technologies that allow you to permanently free yourself
from glasses!
Our SwissLaser clinic collaborates intensively with Schwind scientifically. Dr.
Victor Derhartunian trains doctors worldwide in the field of laser eye correction
using highly advanced technological devices from the
SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions brand.
European standard of treatment
The establishment of SwissLaser marks Dr. Victor Derhartunian’s return to his Polish roots – bringing European knowledge, experience, quality, and renowned Swiss precision to our country, so that every patient in need of vision correction receives the best in terms of technology, expertise, and care.
Our priority is the continuous deepening of knowledge in the field of refractive surgery, lens and laser operations, so that Polish patients can receive treatment at the highest level.
Dr. Victor Derhartunian received the Patients’ Choice Award from 2012-2023.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What does LASIK laser vision correction involve?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis) is a procedure in which a thin flap is created on the cornea, and the corneal tissue beneath it is then reshaped with an excimer laser so that the focal point falls optimally on the retina. Unlike surface methods such as PRK, the epithelium is not removed, so the patient feels no pain and the eyes heal faster. The cornea regenerates within a few days.
Is classic LASIK with a microkeratome still used?
The mechanical variant of LASIK, in which the flap is created with a blade (microkeratome), is used less and less for safety reasons. At SwissLaser the standard is the more modern FemtoLASIK method, in which the incision is made by a femtosecond laser rather than a knife. This translates into greater precision and a lower risk of complications.
What range of refractive errors can LASIK correct?
LASIK is best suited to short-sightedness from -0.5 to -10 dioptres, long-sightedness from +0.5 to +4.0 dioptres and astigmatism up to 6.0 cylinders. This range is indicative only – the decision on whether the procedure is appropriate and safe is always made by the doctor on the basis of a detailed medical history and precise preliminary examinations.
What are the contraindications to LASIK?
The most important contraindications include: an unstable refractive error, eye diseases (including glaucoma, cataract, keratoconus and retinal detachment), metabolic diseases such as diabetes, rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, allergy and atopy, infections, and pregnancy. That is why every procedure is preceded by a thorough suitability assessment, which allows the correction method to be chosen safely.
What complications can occur after LASIK?
The risk of complications after laser vision correction is estimated at around 2%, and the more modern the method, the lower it is. The most common include light sensitivity, dry eye syndrome, temporarily reduced visual acuity and the halo effect, mainly at night. If the halo effect occurs when driving, glasses with anti-reflective lenses are recommended.
How much does LASIK cost at SwissLaser?
As the standard at SwissLaser is to perform the procedure as FemtoLASIK, the official price list applies: PLN 11,000 for both eyes (PLN 6,500 for one eye). The suitability assessment costs PLN 400, and laser packages come with a warranty of up to 5 years. Payment can be spread into instalments through Santander Consumer Bank.
