What is bladeless LASIK?

Bladeless LASIK (also called all-laser LASIK) represents an advancement in how the corneal flap is created.

Traditional vs. Bladeless

Feature

Traditional

Bladeless

Flap creation	Microkeratome blade	Femtosecond laser
Precision	Good	Excellent
Flap thickness	Variable	Highly precise
Complications	Slightly higher	Lower
Cost	Lower	Higher

How Bladeless LASIK Works

Femtosecond Laser

• Delivers ultrafast pulses (femtoseconds = quadrillionths of a second)
• Creates precise layer of microscopic bubbles
• Bubbles separate tissue, creating the flap
• Computer-controlled for exact depth and diameter

Benefits

1. Precision: Flap thickness accurate within 10-15 microns 2. Customization: Flap size, shape, and thickness adjustable 3. Safety: Lower complication rate 4. Predictability: Consistent results 5. Thinner flaps possible: Preserves more corneal tissue

Is Bladeless Better?

Advantages

• More precise flap creation
• Fewer flap complications
• Better for thinner corneas
• Reduced risk of irregular astigmatism

Considerations

• Costs more (typically $200-500 more per eye)
• Takes slightly longer
• Temporary suction causes brief discomfort
• Some patients see floaters initially

Should You Choose Bladeless?

Bladeless is generally recommended because:

• Higher safety profile
• Better precision
• Most surgeons consider it standard of care
• Worth the additional cost for most patients

Most practices in Atlanta now use bladeless technology as their primary method.