LASIK in Roseville, CA

LASIK, or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is the most technologically advanced method of vision correction available to patients today. This refractive surgery procedure offered at Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center in Roseville, CA involves creating a thin flap in the cornea of the eye, and then precisely reshaping underlying corneal tissue with a surgical laser to correct visual errors. The result is long-lasting, clearer eyesight with no need for glasses or contact lenses any longer. Our board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Wilmarth can take the time to meet with every patient and discuss their needs and goals.  

There are many options to choose from when considering laser vision correction. One of the most important aspects to understand before getting LASIK surgery is knowing the difference between a blade (traditional) and bladeless procedure. The difference between LASIK with or without a blade refers to the technology used to create a thin, hinged flap in the cornea. Once the flap is created, Dr. Wilmarth reshapes the corneal tissue underneath with a precision surgical laser to correct refractive errors affecting the vision.

Traditional LASIK uses a small surgical instrument called a microkeratome blade to cut the flap. After the flap is lifted and corneal tissue adjusted, the flap is put back in place to heal.

Bladeless LASIK, on the other hand, is an advanced version of the procedure. Instead of a microkeratome blade, Dr. Wilmarth uses a device called a femtosecond laser. The femtosecond laser creates a flap by breaking apart cells in the cornea rather than cutting into them. As with traditional LASIK, Dr. Wilmarth will put the flap back in place to heal once the bladeless LASIK procedure is over.

Patients must attend a consultation at Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center to determine their eligibility for LASIK. The best candidates are at least 18 years of age, have had a stable vision prescription for at least one year, and do not have any major health issues that could impede the healing process. Dr. Wilmarth will perform a thorough eye exam and take precise measurements of the cornea to develop a personalized treatment plan for your procedure. Even if you are not a candidate for LASIK, our team can discuss other vision correction methods that may be a better fit for your needs.

Performed on an outpatient basis, LASIK takes roughly 15 minutes to complete. Once the procedure is over, Dr. Wilmarth will reposition the flap back in place so it can heal naturally. LASIK surgery addresses refractive errors in the eye where the cornea doesn’t effectively focus light on the retina. 

Depending on the type of LASIK treatment performed, the process will vary slightly. Dr. Wilmarth prefers to use bladeless LASIK at his Sacramento area office, using the Ziemer laser system to create the flap and finishing with the WaveLight® EX500 Excimer laser. After years of performing laser eye surgery, Dr. Wilmarth has found that the bladeless procedure creates a better flap, leading to key benefits like:

• Improved LASIK results
• Reduced risk of complications
• Less need for revision surgery as patients get older

Is LASIK surgery safe?

In addition to long-lasting vision correction, LASIK is very safe and boasts one of the highest success rates of any surgical procedure. Studies place patient satisfaction as high as 98%.

Does LASIK surgery hurt?

No, it doesn't. Most patients don't experience any discomfort during their LASIK procedure. Before Dr. Wilmarth begins, he will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops to keep you comfortable during the procedure.

How long does a LASIK procedure take?

A LASIK surgery is a quick, easy outpatient procedure that typically only takes about 15 minutes.

How long is recovery from LASIK surgery?

The recovery period after LASIK surgery is fast, typically within a couple of days. Dr. Wilmarth will provide you with eye drops to use for about a week after your procedure to prevent infection and keep your eyes lubricated and comfortable.

If you're ready to see more clearly without the pain and hassle of wearing glasses or contacts all day, then our team invites you to consider LASIK, one of the most advanced, sought after laser vision correction surgeries on the market. Our ophthalmologist is highly skilled and experienced in performing this procedure and can discuss all of your needs and concerns beforehand. Call our office today.