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LASIK

Conventional LASIK vs. iLASIK

Posted on February 19, 2016 by Maria Afonso in Bense, Bense Vision, Eye Health, Eyes, iLASIK, Newfoundland, Technology, Vision

Dr. Bense

Conventional LASIK vs. iLASIK

Vision correction has come so far from the first eye glasses introduced in the 13th century, we have evolved from specs to surgeries. The first Laser Vision correction surgeries started with PRK in early 1990’s, followed by the LASIK procedure late 1990’s and then iLASIK in the early-mid 2000’s. If you are interested in LASIK eye surgery and have come this far, you’ve likely been doing some research on Blade vs. Bladeless. What do these terms really mean? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Is it worth it? We want to clear the air and answer some of these common concerns.

LASIK 101

Let’s start by telling you what happens during the LASIK procedure, this will help you understand the difference! During LASIK, the cornea (the outermost layer of the eye) is reshaped to correct vision including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. In order to get to the corneal tissue that needs to be reshaped, the LASIK surgeon must create a thin corneal flap. The flap is the very exterior layer, often described as thin as “saran wrap” or “skin on an onion”. The flap is then lifted for application of laser energy that reshapes the eye for vision correction. The flap stays connected to the eye, when the LASIK procedure is complete and the cornea has been reshaped, the surgeon “closes” the flap, which naturally starts to ahere right away.

What is Conventional or traditional LASIK?

In a conventional LASIK procedure, the surgeon will use a bladed instrument known as a microkeratome to cut a thin flap into the cornea. The hand-held blade comes in direct contact with the cornea in this type of procedure. The flap (door into the cornea) created by a microkeratome is not always precise and may be thinner toward the middle of the flap because of how the blade works. This has the potential to cause certain types of flap defects including buttonholes (where the flap is shaped like a button) and flaps that become detached from the eye or incomplete.

What does “Blade-Free” LASIK means?

In a 100% blade-free LASIK procedure (AKA bladeless or all-laser LASIK procedure), the surgeon will use the advanced technology of a laser to create the flap (door to the cornea). At Bense Vision, our iLASIK procedure exclusively uses the advanced IntraLase iFS™ femtosecond laser – the most advanced Laser Vision Correction used worldwide. This laser uses high-energy laser pulses to separate the corneal tissue. Using this advanced laser technology to create the corneal flap means a more consistent thickness throughout the flap and reduces the number of complications that can result from using the bladed microkertome instrument.

What are the advantages of blade-free flaps

It is a fact that iLASIK technology is 25 times more accurate that conventional LASIK. It is so custom, so precise, and so accurate that we are able to treat many more patients, those that would not have been candidates for “conventional” LASIK are more likely to be good candidates for iLASIK today. As well, using a laser to create the corneal flap during LASIK will lead to fewer flap complications, that we used to see when doing cornea bladed LASIK. This can translate to additional benefits in terms of long-term quality of vision following this iLASIK procedure. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of using a laser to create the corneal flap in a LASIK procedure. Some of the advantages compared with conventional LASIK include:

  • Less flap complications
  • Increased accuracy creating the corneal flap
  • Unprecedented control and precision during the procedure
  • Less patient anxiety without the “blade”
  • Reduced occurrence of halos and glare associated with blade
  • Better long-term vision quality
  • Treat more patients
  • Dry eyes more associated with blade

Is Blade-Free really worth It?

There are many advantages to blade-free LASIK, and there are certainly associated costs with this type of procedure. However, at Bense Vision we believe so strongly that the blade free iLASIK procedure, is the standard of care for today – we do not pass on that cost difference to our patients. It is our opinion that patients who receive the bladed LASIK for the same cost as Bense Vision’s iLASIK are simply overpaying. Did you know? The blade-free iLASIK procedure is the only approved laser vision correction procedure for use by NASA and US Military branches! Now that you understand the advantages compared with conventional LASIK, it’s up to you to determine if the benefits are important to you! When it comes to your vision, you decide what you want and deserve!

Don’t underestimate Surgeon Experience!

While blade-free iLASIK offers many benefits compared with conventional LASIK, the most important aspect is that the patient is in the hands of an expert surgeon. We are talking about tools, and tools are only as good as the surgeon who is using them. For example, a novice surgeon does not have the experience and skill as a seasoned surgeon who has been performing LASIK for many years. While both of these surgeons may use the same femtosecond laser, the seasoned surgeon would be more skilled at using the laser to provide patients with optimal vision outcomes. So don’t let the appeal of blade-free LASIK technology blind you to other important LASIK considerations, such as surgeon experience. We believe in the best, that is why we practice exclusively blade free for our LASIK patients – we are the only iLASIK certified provider in the province.

Experience Blade-Free LASIK from the Best!

At Bense vision you will receive 100% blade-free iLASIK technology in the hands of an experienced and skilled iLASIK surgeon who has performed almost 30,000 laser vision correction surgeries! Because we remain committed to using leading-edge technology and being Newfoundland’s most experienced and qualified iLASIK surgeon, we have helped 95% of our iLASIK patients see 20/20 or better following their procedure, with the majority seeing even better than that….20/15! At Bense Vision we are a “true centre of excellence” for LASIK eye surgery in the province.

To find out if you are a candidate, schedule a free evaluation with our doctors by calling 709.722.2020 or request an appointment via our contact page .


Fact or Fiction: Discussing LASIK Myths

Posted on October 15, 2015 by Maria Afonso in iLASIK, Vision

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Laser Vision Correction procedures have been around for 20 years now, constantly making progressive changes in technology, treatment plans, and financing options. As with any other surgical procedure, your first instinct is to gather as much information as possible in order to help with your decision to move forward.

For as long as laser vision correction procedures have been around, there has been a sharing of information and, more often than not unfortunately, misinformation! Unless you are a LASIK expert, it can be hard to sort through and determine what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to laser vision correction procedures. There is so much information available regarding these procedures, you may not even know where to start!

Luckily, here at Bense Vision, we are experts in all things LASIK, and want to help give you the correct information you are looking for. Let’s take a look at some of the most common LASIK myths, and distinguish once and for all what is fact, and what is pure fiction.

LASIK surgery is painful!

This myth is complete fiction! While LASIK is a surgical procedure, pain is kept under control with the use of eye drops that numb your eyes during the duration of the procedure, which only lasts about 20 minutes from start to finish. Typically, patients will feel pressure during a portion of the procedure, but the actual laser reshaping is completely pain-free. Additionally, you may be provided a mild sedative prior to LASIK if you are experiencing anxiety.

LASIK can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism.

This myth is absolutely true! Many think that LASIK is only meant to or able to treat nearsightedness, but that thinking is incorrect. Advances in laser vision technology mean that many common refractive errors can be treated with LASIK. If you happen to have a more serious refractive error, there are other surgical options available to treat your vision as well.

LASIK surgery can make your vision worse.

This is one of the biggest fears potential laser vision correction patients have prior to undergoing their surgery. Some people are under the belief that laser vision correction can damage your eyesight, and even make you go blind! This couldn’t be further from the truth. No one has ever gone blind from a LASIK procedure, and since the surgery only affects the front surface of your eye, complications are very rare.

You will never have to wear corrective lenses again after LASIK.

This is a trickier LASIK myth, and it is understandable why so much misinformation exists. LASIK will correct your current vision issues, meaning if your vision stays the same for the rest of your life after LASIK, you will be fine! However, since no laser vision correction procedures can stop the natural aging process, it is common for LASIK patients to wear glasses for reading, or for activities such as night driving, when they get older.

Long-term side effects of LASIK are unknown.

This is another myth that can be counted as pure fiction. As mentioned before, laser vision correction procedures have been around for more than 20 years! Given this, the sample size of LASIK patients is more than large enough to state that long-term complications or side effects are not only known, but are virtually non-existent.

Discussing LASIK Myths at Bense Vision

We are committed to providing our patients with the most knowledgeable, professional, reliable, and state-of-the-art eye care solutions available. At Bense Vision, your vision is important to us. We have performed thousands of successful LASIK procedures, and are proud to offer the highest-quality treatment and technology available. Part of the Bense Advantage is being able to enjoy the benefits of our premier laser vision correction facility, including the expertise of Dr. Bense himself, and the support of his highly skilled staff.

If you are having vision problems, and are looking into ways to finally be free of those contacts or glasses, we want to help put you on the right track towards better vision. During your free consultation at Bense Vision, we will be happy to discuss any LASIK myths, frequently asked questions, and any other concerns you may have regarding your laser vision correction procedure.

The information on laser vision correction procedures can be entirely overwhelming if you don’t know where to look. We pride ourselves on being able to clear up the most common LASIK myths out there to help make your laser vision correction journey a smooth one. If you’ve heard or read any information about LASIK that you don’t see addressed here, please feel free to contact us and we will happy to set the record straight!


Life after LASIK

Posted on July 17, 2015 by Maria Afonso in Bense, Bense Vision, Eyes, iLASIK

You can begin enjoying the advantages of LASIK immediately after the procedure! The recovery process is so quick that, if your workplace has a low risk of eye injury, you can return to work one day after getting LASIK. Before you can enjoy your new eyes, it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions and be aware of what you can and cannot do.

BV blog

Immediately After LASIK Surgery

After your surgery, it is important to do whatever you can to protect your eyes. Your doctor will provide you with sunglasses or eye shields, which you will have to wear while sleeping. You will also be given eye drops to prevent inflammation, infections and to keep your eyes moist during the healing process.
It is crucial that you have transportation arranged for after your surgery, as you will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure has been completed. Once you’re home, you may feel like scratching and rubbing your eyes, but it is very important that you do not touch your eyes during recovery time at all. After your procedure, your corneal flap is healing, and rubbing your eyes can halt the healing process by displacing the flap. You may also experience red, watery eyes during healing, but these are all normal, temporary symptoms and nothing to be worried about!

The Next Few Days After LASIK

Your doctor will likely want to do a check-up within the first 24 hours of your procedure to make sure your eyes are recovering well. This is when you will be advised as to when you can drive, and if it’s safe to return to work. After 3 days, you may be able to resume regular outdoor activities, if you are wearing protective eye gear and are being very careful.
You can also resume applying make-up at this time, as long as you stay away from your eyes. This means no mascara or eyeliner just yet, ladies! Additionally, when washing your face make-up off, don’t forget to stay away from the eyes, which can be done by using make up wipes instead of a full-face wash. This alternative will help prevent you from being tempted to rub your eyes during make up removal.

One Month After LASIK

In the weeks following your procedure, you may feel as though there is something in your eye at times, but this is just a normal side effect of LASIK. As long as you are not touching or picking your eyes, this symptom should go away in due time. At this time, you can now resume wearing make-up, and play your favourite sports without eyewear protection!

A Few Months After LASIK

You’re free! A few months after your procedure, you can finally enjoy your new eyes without any restrictions at all. Of course, we always recommend wearing sunglasses and eye protection for high trauma activities, such as outdoor sports, or exposure to the sun. Now go ahead, and savor a life without glasses and contacts!

Did you know that Bense Vision is the only laser clinic in Newfoundland to offer iLASIK™, the most advanced form of LASIK. Book a free consultation to see if you are eligible for laser vision correction today!


3 Reasons Why LASIK is an Investment in Your Vision

Posted on May 26, 2015 by Maria Afonso in iLASIK, Technology, Vision

LASIK is the permanent vision correction procedure for common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. It is a popular procedure for a number of reasons, but never having to wear glasses and/or contact lenses again is a major one. Even though thousands of Canadians have had LASIK to correct their vision, there are still many more who choose to rely on glasses and contacts instead. The reason for this gap has to do with the fact that many people are fearful – of the procedure itself and the cost. We’re here to assure you that when it comes to LASIK, there’s absolutely nothing to fear!

friends smiling

Here are 3 reasons why we think LASIK is the best investment you can make in your vision:

  1. The Cost Savings of LASIK

Many people think of LASIK as an expensive treatment that they would like to have done – if they could afford it. However, not only is the cost of LASIK reasonable, but you actually save money by having it done.

At first glance the cost of LASIK may seem like a lot, but keep in mind that LASIK is designed to be a one-time procedure. When you compare the cost of glasses and contact lenses over a lifetime with LASIK, it’s significantly more than the cost of LASIK. Depending on factors such as your age and the type of lenses you require, the cost and maintenance of glasses and contact lenses can add up quickly, especially if you wear both on a regular basis. In addition, designer frames can cost hundreds of dollars. If you’re like most people, you probably like to replace your glasses once every couple of years. However, it will only take a few years to recover the cost of LASIK by not having to purchase glasses or contact lenses.

In addition, we don’t ever want the cost of LASIK to get in the way of your potential for perfect vision. This is why we offer a variety of financing and payment plans such as LASIK for as low as $83/month and LASIK starting at $500 per eye. We can help you find a plan that’s convenient and fits in with your budget. We’re committed to ensuring that every patient can experience the life-changing benefits of LASIK.

  1. The Value in Clear Vision

LASIK is an investment in your vision because there is plenty of value in having clear vision. Imagine life without ever having to wear glasses or contact lenses again. Combine this with the cost savings of LASIK and it’s easy to see that it is one of the best elective procedures. We assure you it will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make! After all, enjoying clear vision without glasses and/or contact lenses is priceless!

  1. The Accuracy of Treatment and Results

iLASIK is the most advanced LASIK procedure available today. LASIK is not a one-size fits all procedure. iLASIK technology maps out the unique characteristics of your eye and creates a customized procedure so you get the most optimal results. Overall, it increases the comfort, precision and result of your LASIK procedure.

Bense Vision

When you talk about something that can last lifetime, that’s LASIK! It’s the best investment you can make in your vision not only because you’ll be able to see clearly, but also because it makes the most financial sense.

If you are considering LASIK, we encourage you to take the first step by finding out if you are a candidate for LASIK. The best way to find out if you are a candidate is to contact us to book your free LASIK consultation with Dr. Bense. With more than 20 years of experience and more than 20,000 procedures under his belt, you’re in good hands with Dr. Bense. In addition, he was the first surgeon to introduce LASIK to Eastern Canada and is the only certified iLASIK surgeon in St. John’s.

Still not convinced? Here are 8 other reasons why you should choose Bense Vision for LASIK in St. John’s. LASIK can make activities more enjoyable and eliminate the worry and frustration often associated with glasses and contact lenses. We can help you find the best option for achieving crystal-clear vision!

 

 

 

 


Vision Correction Profiles

Posted on August 28, 2014 by Maria Afonso in Vision

Learn which vision correction method is right for you!

Myopia

myopia vision

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is one of the most common vision problems characterized by the inability to see far distances clearly. Myopia can be corrected a number of ways. If your myopia is relatively minor, it can be treated with iLASIK or PRK.

Don’t worry if you experience higher levels of myopia. You have options like bioptics, cachet phakic lens impants, or a refractive lens exchange.

Hyperopia

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a vision problem making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. Hyperopia can be treated with procedures like iLASIK, PRK, Bioptics, LASIK Xtra.

Presbyopia

reading computer screen

Similar to hyperopia, presbyopia is a condition that prevents you from focusing on nearby objects. Unlike hyperopia, presbyopia is a condition that naturally occurs with age and is something everyone experiences around the age of 40. Presbyopia can be treated with iLASIK, PRK, or KAMRA vision.

If you had myopia when you developed presbyopia and require bifocals, you can treat both concerns with Monovision.

Astigmatism

Is your vision blurred? Do you have trouble focusing your vision? You might have astigmatism which is caused by the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. You may already know that iLASIK and PRK can correct astigmatism, but there are other options beyond these procedures as well. Femtosecond Laser Astigmatic Keratotomy, or FSAK, which reduces reliance on contacts and eyeglasses.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disorder that causes the cornea to thin and change to a more conical shape. It has been known to cause distortions to vision that include multiple images, streaking, and sensitivity to light.

Keratoconus can be treated through a variety of methods. Corneal Cross Linking is a method that prevents the progression of keratoconus, although it does not improve vision. Procedures such as LASIK Xtra, PTK, and Intacs which help treat corneal thinning can also help correct keratoconus.

 

If you’re interested in correcting your vision, the best option for you would be to come in for a free consultation so we can help you determine which procedure is best suited for your individual circumstance.


LASIK Satisfaction

Posted on August 18, 2014 by Maria Afonso in iLASIK, Vision

LASIK satisfaction

According to this recent study, LASIK patients highly recommend their method of treatment to friends. While people tend to recommend the vision correction method that they already subscribe to, LASIK is the most recommended when people switch from glasses or contacts. Switching from glasses to contacts or staying in contact lenses led to a 53% recommendation rate, while switching from glasses or contacts to LASIK resulted in up to an 87% recommendation rate.

The satisfaction people feel after obtaining LASIK is greater when people were asked if LASIK worked better for them than their contacts did. 96% of people believed it did.

All in all, patients are most happy with reputable centres for LASIK eye correction that are diligent in learning about new techniques and technologies while being careful about candidate selection.

Are you interested in LASIK? Come in for a free consultation today!


Protective Eyewear for Sports

Posted on August 14, 2014 by Maria Afonso in Eyes

If you’re an athlete at heart, eye protection is an extremely important consideration. You need to protect your eyes from potential injury.

Did you know? 90% of all eye injuries are preventable, according to the CNIB. The CNIB also warns that children under 12 are more susceptible to injury, as they are still developing their depth perception.

eye protection sports

So what sports put you at the highest risk for eye injury? According to the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, the top 3 offenders for eye injury are hockey, racquet sports, and baseball. That’s why face protection for these sports is highly recommended or even required. Face masks and goggles are recommended to keep your eyes safe while playing these sports.

Other sports that put your eyes at risk include shooting sports, fencing, cricket, basketball, and lacrosse. Fishing, football, volleyball, golf, and soccer also include a moderate risk for eye injury.

sports eye safety

Even sports that pose a low risk for eye injury, like bicycling, swimming, or skiing do not leave your eyes completely free from damage. Activities like bicycling and skiing should involve sunglasses to protect from UV rays or even strong glare that could impair your ability to see where you’re going. Swimming with goggles can also prevent irritation in the eyes from chlorinated water.

Make sure you are wearing the proper protection for the sport you are playing so you can keep having fun without putting your eyes at risk!


Eye Correction Surgery Types

Posted on July 3, 2014 by Maria Afonso in Eyes, Vision

While LASIK is certainly the most recognized type of eye correction surgery, there are a wide variety of options available. Most of these procedures work by reshaping the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye. The cornea functions by focusing the light that travels through it, creating a more accurate impression on the retina at the back of the eye. Some surgeries also involve replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one. Check out our comprehensive explanation of the various corrective surgery options below!

Eye correction surgery types

LASIK

LASIK is used to correct vision in patients suffering from nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the procedure a flap is made in the outer layer as seen above, exposing the underlying tissue, which is then reshaped with the use of a laser. The flap is what separates LASIK procedures from other eye corrective surgeries. LASIK can be performed with or without computer imaging known as wavefront technology, which creates a detailed image of the cornea and acts as a guide for treatment.

PRK

Photoreactive keratectomy is a process used to correct mild to moderate nearsightedness, as well as farsightedness and astigmatism. As with LASIK a laser is used to reshape the cornea, however, this laser is used on the surface of the cornea and requires no cutting. The PRK procedure can also take advantage of computer imaging software.

Lasek

Laser epithelial keratomileusis is a variant of PRK in which an epithelial flap is created by loosening the cells with an alcohol solution. A laser is then used to reshape the cornea, and the flap is closed and secured until it has healed. This procedure is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism.

RLE

Refractive lens exchange, also known as clear lens extraction or refractive lens replacement, is similar to cataract surgery. With RLE a small incision is made at the edge of the cornea, through which the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a silicone or plastic lens. This procedure is used to correct extreme farsightedness or nearsightedness, but may be inappropriate for those with corneal problems such as thin corneas or dry eyes. This procedure cannot be used to correct astigmatism, and it may be necessary to combine it with another procedure in order to achieve desired results.

EpiLasik

Similar to PRK treatments, EpiLasik involves separating a very thin layer from the cornea before reshaping the underlying tissue. The layer may be removed or replaced, and then the area is protected by a soft contact lens while it heals.

Intacs

With Intacs treatment two Intercorneal ring segments are inserted at the edge of the cornea through a small incision. These rings work to flatten the cornea thus changing the way light rays are focused on the retina. This procedure is used to treat keratoconus, a disorder that causes negative structural changes to the cornea.

Phakic Intraocular Lens Implants

Used for patients who are too near or farsighted for LASIK or PRK treatments, this procedure involves attaching an artificial lens to the iris behind the pupil, inserted through a small incision at the edge of the cornea. This procedure differs from RLE because the natural lens is left in place.

For more information on the types of procedures we offer, check out our procedures page, or contact us to book a consultation today!


10 Interesting Facts about Eyes

Posted on June 19, 2014 by Maria Afonso in Bense, Eyes, iLASIK

Eyes are complex and amazing organs. Sight is so valuable because not only do eyes allow us to see the beauty in the world around us, but they can also reveal a lot about your health.

eye facts

Here are 10 interesting facts about eyes that you may not have known:

  • The muscles that control your eyes are the most active muscles in the body. They may be small, but they are very hard working.
  • On average, you blink 12 times per minute.
  • Eyes have more than 2 million working parts.
  • Over a normal lifespan, you see close to 24 million images. See the world through perfect vision with LASIK.
  • It’s virtually impossible to sneeze with your eyes open.
  • Everyone is colour blind at birth.
  • The eye is the only place in the body that has exposed veins, arteries, and a major optic nerve that can be viewed. Since eyes can reveal a lot about your health, optometrists can investigate the eye without any incisions.
  • 80% of vision problems are avoidable and curable, making routine eye exams critical for the detection of eye related problems.
  • Eye size never changes! They stay the same from birth to death.
  • Eyes use more brainpower (65%) than any other body part.

 

Bense Vision

Healthy eyes contribute to your overall health. At Bense Vision, we care about the investment in your eyes. Specializing in iLASIK™, we are the premier laser vision correction centre in Atlantic Canada and the only facility offering the procedure in Newfoundland. Find out if you’re a candidate by booking a free consultation today. Bonus: celebrating 20 years of experience, now receive 20% off!

 


The Value in Seeing Clearly: 3 Benefits of LASIK

Posted on June 5, 2014 by Maria Afonso in Bense, Eyes, Vision

Quick, safe, and effective, LASIK has become one of the most popular methods in treating common eye conditions. If you are nearsighted, farsighted, have an astigmatism or glaucoma, LASIK might be for you! Here are 3 reasons why you should consider LASIK to permanently correct your vision:

Benefits of LASIK

  1. Glasses and Contact Lenses

If you have glasses or contact lenses then you know all too well that they can be a hassle. From itchy, red, irritated eyes to random blurs in vision, contact lenses can be quite uncomfortable. In addition they require routine cleaning and maintenance which, if you’re not an avid cleaner, can increase your risk of bacterial eye infections. In addition, remembering to take them out every night can be a real pain in the neck when you’re about fall asleep. Why not make your life easier by dropping the rules and responsibility of having contacts and get LASIK! With LASIK you can also forget about the frustration of losing or even breaking your glasses.

 

2.   Cost of Contact Lenses

The lifetime costs of contact lenses can be significantly more than the one time procedure required for LASIK (depending on factors such as your age and the type of lenses you require). Just think about the number of boxes of contact lenses you purchase a year. Bense Vision’s price match guarantee means if you spot a lower price advertised for LASIK, we’ll match it!

 

3.   Seeing Clearly

Did you know that over an average lifespan you see close to 24 million images. Don’t you want to see the world around you with the sharpest vision? In most cases, vision can be restored to 20/20 with LASIK. What could be more perfect than perfect vision! With the Bense Lifetime Satisfaction Plan if we are unable to correct your vision to 20/20 the first time, we offer free enhancements for life if you meet the requirements of the plan. Eligibility for the plan can be determined at your initial free consultation.
Have a question? Get in touch with one of our experts to have all your questions answered by professionals who have seen many eyes get better vision.


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