Thanks for the question. This is indeed a common question, and one that I anticipated patients would be wondering as well when I perused the different websites offering Lasik.
The multiple machines you have mentioned previously perform one of 2 functions, namely:
a. Flap creation - this is the first step in femto-laser assisted LASIK.
This is performed by 1. Intralase iFS 5th generation, and 2. Ziemer Femto LDV Z6 Excimer laser,
b. Once the flap is created, the flap is lifted off the cornea-stromal bed, where the stromal ablation (or power-correction) is performed with an excimer laser. This is the second step in femto-laser assisted LASIK.
This is performed by 1. Wavelight Ex500 excimer laser, and 2. Schwind Amaris 750s.
These machines are all the current generation laser machines that offer fast, comfortable and accurate surgical outcomes with minimal side-effects (common to all Lasik procedures).
Suffice to say that if your surgeon is using any of these machines, then the differences in outcomes between machines is negligible and not statistically significant. In my practice, I have the privilege of using all of the above machines.
There are some minor anecdotal differences between the manner of performing the surgery including how the eye is stabilised for the procedure, and minor differences in patient visual experience on day 1.
However the overall visual outcome by 1 week, and certainly the long-term visual outcome and success of the procedure is almost identical.
I would say that if your choice of surgeon is using any of the above machines, then you don't have to worry about the technical aspects of your surgery.
You should however concentrate on choosing a surgeon that you are comfortable with, and you trust to help you perform your surgery, who you feel is able to help you identify and manage complications at an early stage.
Most importantly your surgeon should help you identify the correct procedure for yourself, as femto-assisted laser surgery is one of only several options available for spectacle-independent vision (the other include Epilasik, Smile / ReLEX and an implantable collamer lens).
Best of luck in your journey!
ESG
