What is the value of Wavefront?
The wavefront system, as it is now used, was developed by VISX, Inc. (VISX.com),
the
world's largest manufacturer of excimer lasers
and was produced specifically
for LASIK.
Possibly the most promising aspect of its wavefront technology is the ability
to help us identify individuals who are not ideal candidates for LASIK, as well
as individually customize the procedure for those patients who are.
Wavefront mapping is a giant leap in refractive techniques. Traditionally, glasses/contacts
are measured in 0.25 diopter steps,
whereas wavefront measures to 0.01 diopters.
No two eyes are alike. Just like fingerprints and DNA, each eye has its own unique
characteristics. Now, with wavefront technology, Dr. Seibel can develop a customized
laser vision plan exclusively for you.
What is meant by better than 20/20 vision?
Custom wavefront-guided LASIK can provide a new level of accuracy and precision,
never before seen. Studies show the possibility will now exist for individuals
to see beyond 20/20 vision after LASIK surgery.
A FDA clinical study presented at the 2003 American Society of Cataract and Refractive
Surgeons (ASCRS: ascrs.org)
revealed that after a year following wavefront-guided LASIK:
98% of study participants had 20/20 vision or better
70% had 20/16 vision or better
23% had 20/12.5 vision or better
Nearly 80 percent had either the same or better post-op vision without glasses
than their best pre-op visual acuity with glasses or contacts.
More patients were satisfied with their night vision without glasses or contacts
after CustomVue LASIK, when compared to their night vision with glasses
or contacts before surgery.
The wavefront map is derived from technology first developed to correct distortions
of light waves from space. This allowed researchers to accurately view images
of stars and planets.
1994 - The first wavefront mapping of the complete aberration profile of a
human eye
was performed.
1995 - LASIK gained FDA approval.
1999 - The first wavefront LASIK was performed
in 1999.
2002 - The FDA
approved the first commercial use of wavefront LASIK to correct nearsightedness.
Who is a good candidate for Wavefront LASIK?
Normal LASIK candidacy
criteria will continue to apply. These include being 21
years or older, having a stable prescription for at least a year, plus other
medical
criteria.
