Femto LASIK
Femto LASIK, laser eye surgery for all diopter strengths
Fast and painless
LASIK or 'Laser in situ keratomileusis' has been around for a very long time and has been used widely since the late 1990s. In the history of laser eye surgery, it is the most popular treatment ever. Femto LASIK is a short and painless treatment with very predictable results. The effect is already visible after 24 hours.
How does Femto LASIK work?
During the procedure, we use two opposing lasers that complement each other. First, we create an anterior corneal flap using a femtosecond laser. After lifting the flap, we correct the underlying layers with an excimer laser. Then, we replace the flap. You must use eye drops for several weeks to ensure speedy healing.
When do we work with Femto LASIK?
At Medifocus, ReLEx smile is the standard treatment for myopia. But Femto LASIK continues to be useful. Certain corrections are still performed with Femto LASIK. This concerns high strengths for hyperopia and presbyopia corrections. Topo-guided procedures can also only be done using Femto LASIK. These are corrections where the laser treatment pattern is specifically adapted to the surface of the eye.
Which conditions are treated with Femto LASIK?
Who is eligible for Femto LASIK?
Femto LASIK is used for the correction of
- Myopia (0 to -8 diopters)
- Astigmatism (0 to 4 diopters)
- Hyperopia (0 to +3 diopters)
- Presbyopia (0 to +2 diopters)
This means that all strengths can be treated. This is in contrast to ReLEx smile and PRK, where only myopia and astigmatism can be treated.
In terms of age, Femto LASIK is performed between the ages of 20 and 50. For this procedure, one must have had stable diopter strength for 2 to 3 years.
Possible contraindications include pregnancy, diabetes or rheumatism. A lazy eye cannot be treated with laser surgery either.
What can you expect during and after surgery?
Fast, painless procedure
Femto LASIK is a sophisticated, fast procedure. The procedure takes 3 minutes per laser, so 6 minutes in total.
The built-in, computer-controlled video systems (called eye tracking) track every eye movement at a high frequency. So it is impossible for you to look in the wrong direction.
Rapid recovery
After the procedure, you receive eye drops and protective goggles. You should wear these at night for 1 week. Vision usually largely recovers after 24 to 48 hours. After that, you can function, including driving. We expect you will miss some 2 to 3 days of work.
During the first months, you may have dry eyes, but this will improve quickly, including thanks to the eye drops that we will prescribe.
Why Femto LASIK?
The most widely used eye laser technology
Allows the treatment of any strength
Frequently asked questions about Femto LASIK
Is the effect of Femto LASIK treatment permanent?
Yes, the result is permanent. From the age of 44, it is common to require reading glasses. This is the result of the natural aging process of the lens inside the eye.
What should I be aware of before the Femto LASIK procedure?
- Do not wear contact lenses for 3 days before the procedure.
- Do not use makeup for 7 days before the procedure.
- Also, strictly adhere to any other agreements made with the surgeon.
- Are you coming by car? Then arrange for a driver to take you back, since you will not be able to drive yourself.
What must I be aware of after laser eye treatment with Femto LASIK?
After the procedure, we will agree on follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. We also give you a number of important tips that will promote recovery:
- Do not rub your eyes after treatment. You may dab around the eye with a tissue, if you wish.
- Wear the protective goggles you receive from us at night for 1 week.
- Use the eye drops that we prescribe for you. They promote healing of the ocular surface and minimize the risk of infection.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before using eye drops or touching the area around your eyes.
- Do not use a swimming pool or sauna for 2 weeks.
- Do not use makeup for 2 weeks.
- Wear good sunglasses with a UV filter if you suffer from photosensitivity. This is for comfort only and not strictly necessary for recovery.
- Avoid all contact sports for the first few weeks and wear protective goggles as much as possible in the following months.
Read more about aftercare.
Will I suffer from dry eyes after laser eye surgery?
Because we make a flap in the cornea with the Femto LASIK technique, this will have to recover afterwards and you can temporarily suffer from dry eyes after laser eye surgery. The eye drops we give you after treatment also help alleviate this condition.
When will I be able to function again after Femto LASIK treatment?
Immediately after the procedure, your vision will be blurry. This will last for several hours. Your vision will gradually recover over the next 24 to 48 hours. Generally, you can function properly and drive again from then on. It is best to assume that you will be unable to work for 2 to 3 days.
Is a Femto LASIK procedure safe?
The Femto LASIK technique is the most widely used laser eye technique today. It is a sophisticated procedure that every experienced laser eye surgeon can master. Thanks to the eye tracking system, the laser follows all eye movements, so that they can have no impact on the treatment.
Is laser eye surgery with the Femto LASIK technique painful?
No. Your eyes are anesthetized during the procedure, so you will certainly have no pain. You do feel a certain pressure when we fix your eye socket to perform the laser treatment.
Like to know more about your Femto LASIK treatment?
Make an appointment for an exploratory preliminary investigation.