There are two main types of laser eye surgery used today:
LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis)
LASIK reshapes the cornea by removing tissue beneath the surface of the cornea. A device called a microkeratome lifts a thin layer of the cornea. This instrument creates a precise layer by working very much like a carpenter's plane. This layer, or flap, is then folded back. Next, a cool beam of light gently reshapes the outer surface of the cornea. The laser treatment typically takes less than one minute, and the flap is replaced in its original position.
LASIK is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes. The patient remains awake during the procedure and the only anesthetic you will need is eye drops. Anticipate being in our office about one hour on the day of the procedure. Most patients experience improved vision the same day and are able to return to work the very next day.
Some of the advantages of LASIK are little or no postoperative discomfort, waking with good vision the following morning, being back at work quickly, and eye drops are used for less than a week.
LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis)
With LASEK the outer layer of the eye is gently lifted and folded over using a mild alcohol solution to loosen the cells. After the laser is applied to reshape the cornea, the cell layer is repositioned and a soft contact lens is placed over the eye to help keep the cells in place while it heals.
LASEK'S main advantage is that no cut is made. The upside of this when compared to PRK is less post-operative discomfort, less risk of infection and a faster recovery. In comparison to LASIK, the elimination of flap repositioning problems and the risks associated with microkeratome use are major advantages. The only slight disadvantage compared with LASIK is the use of a soft contact lens for the first 3 to 4 days after surgery.
LASEK tends to get used by:
- People who cannot have a cut flap, such as pilots, athletes, or those involved in other activities or occupations where the possibility of contact with the eye is probable.
- Patients with higher myopic values, larger pupils and thinner corneas.
- apply for the laser eye surgery affiliate program