What is Contoura® LASIK or Topography-Guided LASIK?

LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a widely accepted method for correcting various vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. In our CEI offices in New York and New Jersey, in addition to traditional bladeless LASIK, we also offer a new form of bladeless LASIK known as topography-guided LASIK. This approach provides a more personalized and effective solution for vision correction and has become increasingly popular among patients seeking the sharpest possible vision.

Topography-guided LASIK is a type of laser vision correction that leverages the power of advanced mapping technology to create a precise and comprehensive three-dimensional map of the cornea. The cornea is the clear lens in front of the eye, upon which LASIK is performed. This map, known as topography, provides a detailed representation of the cornea’s surface and shape, allowing the LASIK surgeon to tailor the laser correction to the individual needs of each patient.

Dr. Ilan Cohen Has Performed Over 80,000 Vision Correction Procedures.

Dr. Cohen is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and has devoted his career to fine-tuning and perfecting surgical techniques that can change your vision and your life. This is perhaps the reason that more than 1,000 physicians have chosen him for the correction of their own vision.

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Comparing Traditional LASIK, and Contoura® LASIK

Comparing Traditional LASIK, and Contoura® LASIK

In comparison, traditional LASIK is based on the patient’s eyeglass prescription, which provides only a general understanding of the cornea’s shape and fails to take into account the many subtle variations and imperfections that can impact vision. With topography-guided LASIK, the laser correction is guided by the comprehensive topography map, which includes thousands of data points, providing a more effective and personalized approach to vision correction. This approach results in sharper vision and lowers the incidence of side effects like glare and haloes.

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Exceptional Safety Record

Your well-being is our top priority. At Cohen Eye Institute we have a remarkable safety record backed by years of successful procedures. Our highly skilled doctors and rigorous safety protocols ensure that you’re in capable hands throughout your journey.

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How Does Contoura® LASIK Work?

Step 1

The first step in topography-guided LASIK is creating a topography map of the cornea. This is done using a corneal topographer, a device that projects ring-shaped light patterns onto the cornea and records the reflection of these patterns using cameras. The information gathered is then used to create a highly detailed map of the cornea’s shape and surface.

Contoura® LASIK infographic

Step 2

Once the topography map is complete, the LASIK procedure begins. A femtosecond laser is used to create a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to expose the underlying tissue. The flying spot excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea, removing small amounts of tissue to correct any imperfections and improve vision. The tissue removal at each individual point is guided by the topography map. This is as opposed to traditional LASIK where a general treatment pattern is used based on the three-point data prescription alone (sphere, cylinder, and axis).

Contoura® LASIK infographic

Step 3

The flap is then replaced and allowed to heal, without any stitches. The whole surgical process typically takes about 15-20 minutes. After that, the patient can go home. Most people can resume their routine daily activities the very next day.

Contoura® LASIK infographic

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Benefits of Topography-Guided LASIK

There are several notable benefits of topography-guided LASIK, including:

Customized Correction

One of the primary advantages of topography-guided LASIK is the level of customization it provides. By using the topography map to guide the laser correction, the treatment is tailored to the specific eyes of each patient, leading to a more effective and personalized outcome.

Improved Accuracy

The use of topography mapping allows for more accurate and precise point-to-point laser correction, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring optimal results. This technology customizes treatment to the unique shape of each eye, enhancing safety and visual clarity.

Better Results for Complex Cases

Traditional LASIK can be less effective for patients with complex corneal shapes, or other vision problems, such as irregular or high levels of astigmatism. Topography-guided LASIK, on the other hand, can provide better results for these complex cases, resulting in clearer and sharper vision.

Reduced Risk of Complications

By using the topography map to guide the laser correction, topography-guided LASIK minimizes the risk of complications such as halos, glare, and starbursts. Also, it minimizes the chance of human error if the wrong prescription is dialed in or is measured.

Enhanced Outcomes

Studies have shown that topography-guided LASIK can provide better visual outcomes

Speak to your eye care provider to see if they offer this service as topography-guided LASIK has been shown to offer superior results. At Cohen Eye Institute, we use the Contoura® system which is the most advanced form of topography-guided LASIK available today.

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