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What is a free cap? If I happen to have one how does it affect me? |
A free cap is where a patient’s corneal flap may be cut off. Reasons for this happening could include the loss of suction and fixation on the eye, unnecessary pulling on the eye by the surgeon or a sudden movement by the patient.
The new IntraLase laser1 in All Laser LASIK cannot
create a free cap.
To an experienced surgeon, a free cap is usually not a severe complication. The cap is replaced and allowed to dry and adhere to the corneal bed surface.
Usually no stitches are required. Once attached for 24 hours, the chances of a cap being lost are negligible. Should such a situation arise, a lost cap will usually result in severe scarring and poor visual acuity. To rectify the situation, complicated surgery would be required with the aid of a donor eye.
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