Femto LASIK Sergery
Femto LASIK (Femtosecond LASIK), also known as bladeless LASIK, is an advanced laser procedure for the correction of refractive errors that eliminates the need for a mechanical blade. Instead of a microkeratome, a femtosecond laser is used to create the corneal flap.
At our hospital, we use the VisuMax femtosecond laser system from Carl Zeiss, Germany. This technology delivers very low-energy laser pulses (<0.2 µJ) with a gently curved contact surface and low suction pressure, so patients experience minimal discomfort during flap creation. The laser produces an exceptionally smooth and uniform corneal interface, with flap thickness precisely programmable between 80–200 microns. This level of accuracy is superior to that of a mechanical microkeratome and allows for thinner flaps, making the procedure suitable for patients with relatively thin corneas who previously were not candidates for conventional LASIK.
Because the VisuMax system uses low average energy to create the corneal flap, there is minimal collateral effect on the corneal tissue, resulting in fewer side effects, a shorter recovery period, and rapid visual rehabilitation.
Advantages of Femto LASIK Flap Creation
- High safety profile due to very low laser energy levels.
- Excellent precision, with flap thickness controlled at the micron level.
- Fast wound healing, as the corneal flap interface is smooth and uniform.
- Short flap-creation time, reducing intraoperative discomfort and anxiety.
Suitable Candidates for Femto LASIK
- Age 18 years or older with stable refraction for at least 1 year
- Patients under 20 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- No significant ocular diseases such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, glaucoma, or retinal degeneration.
- No systemic conditions that adversely affect wound healing, for example:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Psoriasis
- Other autoimmune diseases
- Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus - Not currently taking oral acne medications such as Roaccutane, Acnotin, or Isotretinoin. These medications must be discontinued for at least 1 month before the preoperative evaluation and surgery, as they can cause abnormal dryness of mucous membranes, including the corneal surface.
Patients taking other medications for chronic illnesses—such as those for diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, thyroid disorders, or sleeping pills—should inform the ophthalmologist on the day of examination, but may continue these medications as usual. - Not pregnant and not breastfeeding. (If menstrual cycles have returned regularly for at least two cycles, the procedure may be considered.)
- Not currently undergoing treatment with psychiatric medications for active psychiatric conditions.
- Have undergone a comprehensive ophthalmic examination and been certified by an ophthalmologist as having healthy eyes and being suitable for Femto LASIK according to safety standards.
- Have a clear understanding of the Femto LASIK procedure and maintain realistic expectations regarding the outcome.
