Lasek
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Laser epithelial keratomileusis or LASEK is a modified form of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).This procedure requires the surgeon to loosen the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium with an alcohol solution for around 30 seconds. Then the surgeon folds back the loosened epithelium so that the laser can reshape the exposed cornea. After laser application, the surgeon replaces the "flap" of epithelium over the corneal bed and placed a bandage soft contact lens on top.
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| LASEK combines the benefits of the two most commonly performed procedures Lasik and PRK. Visual recovery after LASEK is generally faster than in PRK but slower than in LASIK. |  |
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Technology
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This procedure requires the surgeon to loosen the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium with an alcohol solution for around 30 seconds. Then the surgeon folds back the loosened epithelium so that the laser can reshape the exposed cornea. After laser application, the surgeon replaces the "flap" of epithelium over the corneal bed and placed a bandage soft contact lens on top.
FAQ
Why should I choose LASEK when LASIK seems to be the popular procedure?
Certainly if you are a candidate, LASIK would also be offered. However, LASIK is not an option if your corneas are too thin. For such persons, LASEK is the safer alternative.
Why do I need to wear a contact lens after my LASEK?
Although all the epithelium is present immediately following LASEK, it needs time to become adherent. The contact lens keeps the eyelid from disturbing this adhering process.
Why does it take time for the vision to fully recover following LASEK?
A smooth, central epithelium is crucial for clear vision. Following LASEK, although the epithelium is present, it may be slightly irregular and needs time to become perfectly smooth again.
When can I go back to work?
Typically, it takes a day or two to obtain functional vision following LASEK. While some patients can go back to work the next day, most feel more comfortable waiting a few days.
Will I experience dry eyes after the procedure?
Patients have different risk in experiencing post-operative dry eye. Typically, most patients experience mild dryness of the eyes (usually upon awakening or after extended reading) for a month or two. Artificial tear drops are usually all that is needed to relieve these symptoms.
When can I fly following my procedure?
Altitude has no effect on the vision or the healing of the eye after LASEK. So, you can actually fly the next day if you like. However, be aware, that the air blowing from the vents above you may make your eyes feel more dry. Just bring your teardrops with you.
How long will the effects of the surgery last?
As far as we can tell, the effect of LASEK is permanent. However, if one's eye is still growing and changing, some of the effect may be lost. Typically, the eye, just like one's feet, stops growing at a certain age. The age that this occurs is different for different people, but usually occurs in the early twenties. At that point, one can wear the same prescription from year to year, short of some minor fluctuations that occur about a baseline prescription.
What Are the Advantages of LASEK?
Complications associated with cutting and reattaching the flap in the cornea are avoided. LASEK laser eye surgery causes dry eye less frequently than LASIK laser eye surgery because in avoiding a deeper flap, the corneal nerves responsible for the tearing reflex are not cut.
What Are the Disadvantages of LASEK?
Longer visual recovery time compared to LASIK. Many LASEK patients will not fully recover functional vision for 1 to 2 weeks while their eye heals, which is similar to the healing time experienced in PRK . LASIK patients often have good vision by the day after surgery. LASEK may cause more pain and discomfort than LASIK , but less pain than PRK . Most LASEK patients say the discomfort lasts about 2 days or less. Patients need to wear a "bandage contact lens" for about 3 or 4 days after LASEK to serve as a protective layer between your blinking eyelids and the treated eye surface, which is not necessary after LASIK. Patients must use topical steroid drops for several weeks longer than that used after LASIK laser eye surgery.
What Are the Side Effects of LASEK Laser Eye Surgery?
LASEK shows side effects less frequently than is seen with PRK, however side effects may occur. These may include:
• Sensation of having a foreign object in your eye (can last anywhere from 1 to 4 days)
• Temporary reduced vision under poorly lit conditions (up to 12 months)
• Dry eyes, requiring the use of moisturizing drops (up to 6 months)
• Hazy or cloudy vision (should disappear within 6 to 9 months)
