The LASIK procedure has revolutionised vision correction by offering a quick, safe, and highly effective solution for patients with refractive errors. One of the most advanced LASIK technologies available today is WaveLight LASIK, which uses precision-guided lasers to provide exceptional outcomes for patients. If this is the first time you’re learning about WaveLight LASIK surgery, here’s everything you need to know about it.
If you’re over the age of 18 and have had a stable prescription for a year or more, you can have vision correction surgery at Focus Clinics. Including the surgery that this revolutionary LASIK technology allows us to provide to patients who may never have thought laser eye surgery was an option for them.
What is WaveLight LASIK?
WaveLight LASIK technology is an advanced form of laser eye surgery that uses the WaveLight EX500 excimer laser system. This WaveLight laser system is known for its speed and precision and allows for a personalised treatment tailored to each patient’s unique eye shape and vision profile.
Unlike standard LASIK, which typically follows a one-size-fits-all approach, WaveLight LASIK is custom-designed for each patient, making it one of the most effective methods for correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
How Does WaveLight LASIK Work?
WaveLight LASIK involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps to reshape the cornea and improve the eye’s ability to focus light accurately:
1. Mapping and Analysis: Before the procedure, WaveFront technology creates a highly detailed 3D map of the cornea. This map shows every contour and irregularity in your eye which allows us to create a personalised treatment plan based on your eye, not just the eye condition you have.
2. Precise Corneal Flap Creation: A thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea with a femtosecond laser light. This flap provides access to the underlying corneal tissue and will be put back in place following the procedure.
3. Laser Reshaping: The WaveLight EX500 excimer laser then precisely reshapes the cornea according to the personalised map, correcting refractive errors that cause blurry vision. This is known as the laser ablation process.
4. Flap Replacement: Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned, where it naturally adheres without stitches. Healing begins almost immediately.
This is a highly accurate and consistent treatment with precision and customisation capabilities that aren’t possible with other more conventional refractive surgery. It offers highly customised LASIK treatments for those with more than just basic refractive errors. Because of this, it is our go-to treatment for comprehensive vision correction.
Benefits of WaveLight LASIK
Here are some of the primary benefits that make WaveLight LASIK a popular choice for laser eye surgery.
1. Customised Vision Correction
WaveLight LASIK is a fully personalised procedure that’s tailored to each individual’s unique eye anatomy and visual needs. This enables precise correction of even minor imperfections, leading to sharper vision and often better results than standard LASIK. These highly personalised LASIK treatments mean that 100% of our patients leave our London surgery with 20/20 vision.
2. High Speed and Efficiency
The WaveLight LASIK laser is one of the fastest excimer lasers available, operating at 500 Hz. This speed minimises the time patients spend under the laser, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of eye movement during the procedure. In most cases, the laser reshaping takes only a few seconds per eye.
3. Improved Accuracy with Eye Tracking
One standout feature of the WaveLight LASIK system is its sophisticated eye-tracking technology. This feature continuously tracks eye movement at a rate of 1,050 times per second, ensuring that the laser remains accurately positioned even if your eye shifts slightly during surgery. This enhances safety and improves the precision of the results. So, if you’ve ever wondered what happens if you move your eyes during laser eye surgery, rest assured that with this treatment, nothing at all happens!
4. Reduced Glare and Halos
Thanks to its high customisation, WaveLight LASIK reduces the risk of common LASIK side effects such as glare and halos, especially in low-light conditions. Many patients who receive this laser treatment also experience improved night vision as a result.
5. Short Recovery Time
Recovery after WaveLight LASIK is usually fast. Most patients notice a significant improvement in their vision within a day, and many are able to return to work and daily activities within just 24–48 hours. So you won’t need to spend too much time away from the kids or work.
6. Consistently High Success Rates
Clinical studies show that WaveLight LASIK has consistently high success rates. At Focus, we have a 100% success rate of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. The advanced customisation and precision offered by WaveLight technology make it one of the most reliable LASIK options available.
What to Expect Before, During, and After WaveLight LASIK
Before the Procedure
Consultation – A consultation with your eye surgeon will involve a series of tests and measurements to determine your candidacy and design a personalised treatment plan. If our consultants discover this treatment isn’t suitable for your eye condition, we’ll recommend the best one for your needs.
Preparation – You’ll be asked to stop wearing contact lenses before surgery to ensure accurate corneal measurements.
During the Procedure
Comfort – The procedure typically lasts around 10-15 minutes for both eyes and numbing drops will be applied just before it to ensure comfort.
Laser Application – The laser application itself takes only a few seconds per eye due to the high-speed WaveLight EX500.
After the Procedure
Immediate Results – Most patients notice an improvement in vision immediately or within a few hours.
Recovery – You’ll need to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid rubbing your eyes. Vision continues to improve over the following days and you’ll have a follow-up appointment to check on progress. Full LASIK recovery takes about six months, but you’ll start noticing the difference in your vision almost straight away.
Learn more about preparing for LASIK and what to expect before and after the surgery right here.
Is WaveLight LASIK Right for You?
WaveLight LASIK is an excellent choice for patients looking for a personalised, high-precision approach to vision correction. With its advanced tracking, customisation, and rapid recovery, it is the best choice if you’re ready to say goodbye to contact lenses or glasses forever.
Ready to take the first step to clearer vision? Get in touch for a free consultation with one of our highly experienced laser eye surgeons.
