Patient FAQs
What is Lasik Xtra?
Lasik Xtra is a three-minute procedure performed during LASIK eye surgery that effectively ‘locks-in’ the LASIK correction, providing improved procedure accuracy and longer term stability. Lasik Xtra is comprised of the following steps:
- LASIK eye surgery is performed as usual
- VibeX Xtra eye drops are applied to the cornea
- The cornea is then illuminated with ultra-violet A (UVA) light
- The light cross-links the collagen fibers within the cornea, making it stronger, and ‘locks-in’ the LASIK correction
What is LASIK?
LASIK, which stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis, is a medical procedure during which a laser is used to cut a flap thinner than a human hair in the cornea, the transparent window at the front of the eye. After the flap is created, another laser removes a small amount of tissue, half the thickness of a contact lens, from under the flap, reshaping the cornea. LASIK is the most common form of vision correction surgery practiced today, with 3.5 million procedures performed every year worldwide.
What is cross-linking?
Cross-linking is a medical procedure that combines the use of UVA light and riboflavin eye drops to add biomechanical strength to the cornea.
Are there any safety concerns regarding the use of UVA light or riboflavin in the eye?
Exposure to UVA light during a Lasik Xtra procedure is comparable to, or even less than, the exposure of the eye to the UVA light in sunlight for a full day outdoors in the summer. Riboflavin is naturally occurring in the body, including the eye. It is a photosensitizer that has been safely used in corneal cross-linking procedures for over a decade. Riboflavin is non-toxic and is used as an additive in food and pharmaceuticals.
Is there an age limit for Lasik Xtra?
Patients that are good candidates for LASIK are generally eligible for Lasik Xtra. Consult your eye care professional to learn if Lasik Xtra is right for you.
Does Lasik Xtra require removal of the epithelium?
No. During a standard LASIK procedure, a flap is made in the cornea. This flap allows Lasik Xtra to be performed without removal of the epithelium (the protective tissue covering the front of the cornea).
Can Lasik Xtra be combined with other refractive treatments?
Yes. Lasik Xtra can be combined with SMILE, PRK, and LASEK. Consult with your ophthalmologist to determine the best treatment for you.
Can both eyes receive Lasik Xtra?
Yes.
Is Lasik Xtra the same as the corneal cross-linking procedure used to treat conditions such as keratoconus?
Generally, yes. Corneal cross-linking, with slightly different procedure treatment parameters (longer time, higher power, etc.) than Lasik Xtra, may be combined with corneal rings, phakic lens implants, refractive lens exchange, and to directly treat keratoconus.
I’ve already had LASIK, can I have the Lasik Xtra procedure?
Yes. In most instances, Lasik Xtra can be performed at any time after having a LASIK procedure, even years later. Your ophthalmologist may also recommend Lasik Xtra in conjunction with a LASIK enhancement if one is required.
Are there any limitations or restrictions as to what I can do after Lasik Xtra?
The only limitations are those your doctor may recommend following a standard LASIK procedure. There are no additional recommendations or requirements based on the integration of Lasik Xtra into your LASIK procedure.
Will people be able to tell by my appearance that I have had Lasik Xtra?
No.
How many people have undergone a Lasik Xtra procedure?
More than 200,000 eyes have been treated with Lasik Xtra around the world.
How much does Lasik Xtra cost?
Please contact your physician for specific pricing information.
Is Lasik Xtra approved in the United States?
No. Lasik Xtra is not approved in the United States. Click here to find locations of doctors performing Lasik Xtra around the world.
Considering LASIK?
Ask your physician about Lasik Xtra. Find an ophthalmologist in your area today to find out if the treatment is right for you.
This product information is intended for NON U.S. audiences only.