The laser treatment for each eye during the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure typically lasts between 10 to 15 seconds. The entire procedure is completed quickly.
The Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure has emerged as a revolutionary advancement in laser vision correction, offering patients a fully customised treatment to optimise their visual clarity. While the science behind it is complex and state-of-the-art, the time it takes to perform this life-changing procedure is remarkably brief.
Let’s explore precisely how long the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure takes, what makes it unique, and its advantages and drawbacks to help you better understand this cutting-edge vision correction method.
A Brief Overview
The Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure is the first of its kind to deliver 100% custom laser vision correction through a highly advanced approach. Using proprietary diagnostic imaging, artificial intelligence (AI), and ray-tracing technology, it creates a personalised laser plan tailored to the unique anatomy of each patient’s eyes.
The procedure begins with a comprehensive diagnostic phase involving the use of the InnovEyes Sightmap—a device capable of generating a detailed 3D “digital twin” of the eye, often referred to as an “eyevatar.” Based on this personalised “eyevatar,” the laser correction phase takes place with incredible precision.
The Time Required for the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes Procedure
Now, to answer the key question—how long does it take? The actual laser correction in the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure is astonishingly quick. It takes approximately 10–15 seconds per eye for the laser application itself.
This swift readiness is achieved thanks to the advanced excimer laser technology used in the treatment, specifically the EX500 excimer laser. Once the laser begins its work, it operates efficiently, delivering corrections in just seconds.
Other Factors to Consider
While the laser application itself is incredibly fast, it’s important to keep in mind that the entire process, from start to finish, takes longer when you include preparation and recovery steps. Here’s a breakdown of the timeline involved in the full procedure:
- Pre-Procedure Preparation (30–40 minutes): This includes consultations, detailed imaging using the Sightmap device, and setting up the surgical equipment.
- Actual Laser Time (10–15 seconds per eye): The most instantaneous part of the process, during which light adjustments are made to correct vision problems.
- Post-Procedure Recovery (10–20 minutes): Patients are given time to stabilise and a post-operative examination is conducted to ensure the laser corrections were successfully performed.
Altogether, Wavelight Plus InnovEyes can be comfortably completed as an effective outpatient procedure, typically lasting 1–2 hours.
What Sets Wavelight Plus InnovEyes Apart?
The Wavelight Plus InnovEyes isn’t just about speed—it’s about precision and personalisation. Traditional laser vision correction techniques often rely on standardised treatment protocols, applying the same method for individuals with similar prescriptions. While effective, these one-size-fits-all approaches may not address subtle, individual differences in the anatomy of each person’s eyes.
With Wavelight Plus InnovEyes, every procedure is fully tailored to the patient, thanks to the following innovations:
- Digital Eye Map Creation: Using the InnovEyes Sightmap, the process begins with generating a 3D digital representation of the eye, capturing every unique detail.
- Ray-Tracing Accuracy: The inclusion of ray-tracing technology ensures each light ray entering the eye is precisely focused on the retina, delivering superior acuity.
- AI-Guided Ablation Planning: Artificial intelligence personalises the laser treatment profile through iterative virtual surgery on the digital twin of the patient’s eye.
Step-by-Step Process of the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes Procedure
If you’re considering undergoing this vision correction method, here’s an easy-to-understand breakdown of the steps involved.
Step 1 – Eye Mapping with InnovEyes SightMap
The process starts with the InnovEyes SightMap, where cutting-edge diagnostic technology creates the patient’s digital “eyevatar.” This 3D map captures even the most microscopic irregularities in both the inner and outer anatomy of the eye.
This mapping phase typically takes 10–20 minutes, depending on the complexity of the eye’s anatomy. The “eyevatar” ensures the upcoming treatment is personalised, factoring in potential aberrations and optimising the eventual outcome.
Step 2 – Personalised Laser Profile Creation
Using advanced AI and ray-tracing technology, the InnovEyes software develops a unique treatment plan tailored specifically to the patient’s eye. This process simulates the surgery on the created digital twin in order to fine-tune the results. Every detail, from ray adjustments to potential biomechanical shifts post-surgery, is accounted for to ensure maximum precision.
Creating this personalised laser profile typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Step 3 – Laser Correction
The final step involves executing the treatment plan with the EX500 excimer laser. Thanks to its efficiency and precision, the actual laser correction typically lasts just 10–15 seconds per eye. During this phase, subtle adjustments are applied to fine-tune the focus of light rays on the retina and reduce visual aberrations.
Step 4 – Post-Procedure Examination
Following the laser correction, patients undergo a brief examination to confirm the success of the procedure and are given post-care instructions. This typically lasts 10–20 minutes, during which patients often begin to notice an immediate improvement in their vision.
Addressing the Flap-Based Nature of the Procedure
Despite its cutting-edge innovations, the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure takes a slight step back in one aspect—it remains a flap-based procedure.
This means that, like conventional LASIK, a thin flap is created on the cornea to allow the underlying layers to be reshaped by the laser. While this approach is effective, some newer laser vision correction methods (such as SMILE Pro) avoid flap creation altogether, resulting in potentially quicker recovery and fewer complications for certain patients.
Nevertheless, the high level of customisation offered by Wavelight Plus InnovEyes still makes it a superior choice for many individuals, particularly those with more complex prescriptions or subtle visual aberrations.
Key Benefits of Wavelight Plus InnovEyes
While the procedure is relatively swift, the benefits it offers are long-lasting. Here are some of the standout advantages of choosing Wavelight Plus InnovEyes over its traditional counterparts:
- Full Personalisation: Unlike earlier methods, this procedure employs the digital eye twin to deliver a uniquely tailored treatment for each patient.
- Precise Vision Correction: Ray-tracing technology enhances the overall quality of vision correction by eliminating subtle aberrations.
- Long-Term Results: Its ability to account for potential future changes in the eye ensures lasting improvements in visual clarity.
- Minimised Human Error: Automated calculations using AI mitigate errors in the ablation process, which can occur in other treatments.
- Comfortable Outpatient Experience: With a brief and simple outpatient setup, patients can resume most normal activities after just a few days of rest.
Is Wavelight Plus InnovEyes Right for You?
The Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure offers an unparalleled level of personalisation and precise laser vision correction in record time. For patients seeking customised care and a long-lasting solution, it’s a highly compelling option that raises the bar for laser vision correction.
However, it’s worth discussing with your ophthalmologist whether a flap-based approach aligns with your needs, as other non-flap alternatives may suit some individuals better.
If you’re considering the Wavelight Plus InnovEyes procedure, schedule a consultation to better understand your unique eye anatomy and explore options tailored specifically for you. This quick yet advanced treatment could be your path to clearer vision and improved quality of life—just 10–15 seconds per eye!
