Intra-Lasik corneal surgery

IntraLASIK visual correction surgery will allow you to see from distance (far vision) with both eyes, significantly reducing the need for eyeglasses. This surgery is appropriate for people who are interested in improving their visual acuity but who do not suffer from conditions such as cataract, glaucoma, or others, for which we offer other options.

The main goal of the vision correction surgery has always been to provide a safe alternative to the use of eyeglasses or contact lenses. With the emergence of technologies such as Femto Laser Allegretto and IntraLASIK, safety levels and accuracy have increased significantly.

How does it work?

IntraLASIK consists of two stages: one in which a bladeless separation is created from a thin layer of the cover of the cornea using a specialized laser. This separation allows us to access the inside of the cornea where the corrective treatment will take place in the second stage. With the Excimer laser we reconfigure the corneal topography according to the prescription that achieves the greatest and permanent visual acuity.

How do I know if I can have surgery?

Anyone who wants to know if he is a candidate to stop using eyeglasses to see from afar should have an evaluation. At Instituto de Ojos we perform a full evaluation that includes various tests. These are:

  • Refractive exam, reading glasses exam, far / near vision quality tests, intraocular pressure with elasticity of the cornea
  • Laser analysis of the fundus of the eye to determine the condition of the retina
  • Reading the thickness of the cornea, its contour maps and ocular surface status
  • Microscopic eye exam

The evaluation appointment in which we perform these tests lasts two hours, since it includes an orientation on the procedure, recovery and financing options. For an evaluation click here or call 787-769-2477.

How long does the surgery take and how it is?

The procedure takes about 10 minutes, but the day of the surgery you should reserve an hour and bring a companion with you. The surgery is performed using topical anesthesia (eye drops) to guarantee that you don’t experience pain. Only a little pressure is felt when we place a plastic instrument with the shape of the eye that keeps it open and immobilized during the application of the two lasers that are used in each eye.Recovery is fast and treatment requires the use of prescription eye drops. You can return to work within 24 to 48 hours after surgery.

Will I notice the difference immediately?

At the end of surgery, you will see with your eyes. Usually, most patients perceive their improvement as soon as they rise from the treatment table. Recovery starts from day one, but it is normal to see a little blurry and feeling the sensation of a foreign body or straw. This is because a mild corneal edema is generated as part of the procedure and the temporarily dry eye worsens, requiring frequent use of eye lubricants. In addition, you will use dark eyeglasses to avoid light when you are outside. These postoperative effects are normal and temporary. Usually they disappear gradually after four to six (4-6) weeks after surgery.

Should I take a leave from work?

You can return to work the following day, although you must reserve one hour for your first post op visit.

How much does the surgery cost? Do health insurance plans cover it?

IntraLASIK vision correction surgery is an elective procedure and it is not covered by medical plans. The cost of the surgery is $1,295.00 per eye and includes without additional charges, the evaluation and qualification appointment, where we will determine if you are a candidate. It also includes postoperative visits during the first 6 months. For an evaluation appointment click here.