LASIKblog

2008 has been a rough year for LASIK surgeons. The weak economy, high gasoline prices, and the ailing stock market have combined to strain peoples' budgets. When this happens, elective surgical procedures, such as LASIK, become a low priority. As with most markets, the strong survive better than the weak, and in the world of LASIK, doctors need to perform procedures every week, or nearly every week, in order to maintain their skills, and deliver a consistent, high quality product. In addition, the April 25 FDA Ophthalmic Devices Advisory Panel hearings on LASIK made consumers wary about the safety of the procedure. Despite some anecdotes about unfavorable experiences, most testimony at the FDA was highly supportive of the safety, and effectiveness, of LASIK. In fact, 95% of patients worldwide are satisfied with the outcome of their LASIK. On the positive side, LASIK is safer, and more accurate, than ever before. This is partly due to the technology allowing the LASIK flap to be created with the femtosecond laser, or IntraLase. The IntraLase creates a perfect corneal flap every time, much better than the microkeratome. Presently, 28% of LASIK practices use the IntraLase. Eventually, every LASIK surgeon will need to adopt this technology. LASIK has been performed since 1989, nearly 20 years. It appears that it is a safe, effective, and permanent procedure when it is properly performed. At Scripps Clinic Laser Vision Center, we continue to be impressed with LASIK, and the high level of satisfaction among our patients. For more information about LASIK, please see our website, JoyOfLasik.com, or contact tfleisler@scrippsclinic.com.