IFS Intralase Vs. Lasik - Will IFS Reduce Risk of Complications?

The short answer is yes. The mechanical method of creating the corneal flap, which composes the first step of LASIK, was widely used from the mid 1990's until 2002. Since then the all laser method(Intralase, also called femtosecond technology) has by and large replaced the mechanical method in all but the discounted environment. So, hearing a laser center or doctor talking about "all laser lasik" or "Intralase" is in no way a marketing gimmick. It is... more

The iFS is the newest generation of Intralase. LASIK using the Intralase or other femtosecond laser is definitely safer than "bladed" LASIK. THe complication rate of creating the flap is less than 1:1000. IT will be difficult to provee that this generation of laser has fewer complications due to the rarity with femtosecond laser. To choose a surgeon for your LASIK procedure, make sure that you feel comfortable with them, they have onsite equipment which is maintained and state... more

Since LASIK first began in the mid 1990's one of the biggest advancements was that of making the flap with a femtosecond laser rather than a blade. I was one of the first three doctors in the world to introduce this technology and continue to be a consultant in the field. The newest Intralase, iFS, has some improvements over the previous generation, but the important thing is to have some sort of femto LASIK rather than a blade. This particular laser is faster than its predecessor,... more