How the Laser Works

Using data collected during the pre-operative LASIK consultation, which determines the exact amount of refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism) that needs to be corrected, the laser reshapes the cornea—the clear front surface of the eye. The newly shaped cornea will allow light passing through it to be focused directly onto the retina, producing a clear, sharp image just as if the patient were wearing her glasses or contact lenses. The Visx Star 4 Laser delivers computer-controlled ultraviolet beams through a series of pulses that disrupt and cleave the molecular bonds between the cells of the cornea. This disruption is organized in precise fashion so that the cornea is molded to exactly eliminate a patient’s refractive error and produce excellent vision as soon as the next day. The Visx Star 4 Laser is accurate up to 0.35 microns, or 0.00004 of an inch. No other technology offers such a uniquely consistent result. The precision of the Visx Star 4 Laser, coupled with its proven safety, is what allows Dr. Kiernan to offer predictable and reproducible results to his patients. And now, with the advancement of the WaveScan WaveFront System, Dr. Kiernan can not only correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism (called lower order aberrations), but also other irregularities in the visual system that traditional procedures ignore. These irregularities are called higher order aberrations and are responsible for night vision issues such as glare, halo and starbursting. With the newest technology offered at Premier Eye Care & Surgery, Dr. Kiernan is able to eliminate these problems for patients who are deemed good candidates for LASIK, providing excellent results both during the day as well as at night. Drs. Donlea and Roytman team with Dr. Kiernan to determine a patient’s candidacy for LASIK. Careful preoperative testing will assess the level of refractive error, pupil size, corneal thickness, corneal curvature and the health of the ocular surface and posterior chamber. After careful evaluation, you will know if LASIK is an option for you. A careful consultation is a prerequisite for LASIK as roughly 10% of patients are determined to be poor candidates. Please call one of our offices and schedule an appointment for a LASIK consultation today.