IntraLase--certified IntraLase surgeons in Mountain View and San Jose

Peninsula Laser Eye Medical Group specializes in leading edge technology. IntraLase offers our patients the highest quality and safety when creating the corneal tissue separation during LASIK.

• What is IntraLase and how is it used in LASIK?
• Is the IntraLase painful?
• How long does it take to create the flap using IntraLase?
• What are the advantages of IntraLase versus the mechanical micokeratome?
• Is IntraLase more expensive?
• Why don’t all doctors offer IntraLase?
• Have there been any recent studies done comparing the standard micokeratome procedure vs. the IntraLase technology?

What is IntraLase and how is it used in LASIK?

IntraLase is a laser that is used to create the protective flap of the cornea, which is the first step in the LASIK procedure. IntraLase uses tiny, rapid pulses of laser light to create the corneal flap, instead of a mechanical microkeratome. Each pulse of light passes through the top layers of the cornea and forms a microscopic bubble at a precise and specific depth of the cornea. The IntraLase laser moves back and forth across the eye, creating a uniform layer of bubbles at a precise level just below the corneal surface. These bubbles then coalesce and form a smooth surface that can be gently lifted by your surgeon just prior to the refractive treatment by the VISX excimer laser.

back to top

Is the IntraLase painful?

Prior to creating the flap, a drop of topical anesthetic is placed to numb the cornea. Then a small suction ring is placed to gently flatten the cornea in preparation for the IntraLase treatment. At this time there is a slight pressure sensation but no pain.

back to top

How long does it take to create the flap using IntraLase?

Creating the flap only takes 20–30 seconds. Including preparation time, the entire LASIK procedure takes about 10 minutes per eye.

back to top

What are the advantages of IntraLase versus the mechanical micokeratome?

The IntraLase method can create a slightly thinner corneal flap than the microkeratome. This is helpful for patients with thin corneas. Both the mechanical microkeratome and the IntraLase method are very safe but recent studies report a slightly lower risk for a potential corneal flap problem with the IntraLase. Interestingly, the military now prefers IntraLase LASIK for their pilots and other enlisted personnel. An article discussing this can be found below on our website.

back to top

Is IntraLase more expensive?

Yes, it costs on average $400 more per eye.

back to top

Why don’t all doctors offer IntraLase?

IntraLase is a very expensive machine and advanced training is required to operate the IntraLase. We pride ourselves on offering the best technology for our patients and we are proud to offer the IntraLase to our patients who are interested in or require this technology for their refractive procedure.

back to top

Have there been any recent studies done comparing the standard micokeratome procedure vs. the IntraLase technology?

Yes, the military recently completed a study that revealed that IntraLase patients had a slightly higher chance of seeing 20/20 and also performed slightly better on performance tasks. Please see this information sheet for more about this study.

back to top