Lasik Surgery: EPI-LASEK
What is EPI-LASEK?
EPI stands for laser epithelial keratomileusis and is a modified LASEK procedure uses a "separator" to preserve a living layer of epithelium, which is replaced after the excimer laser reshapes the stroma. Epi-LASEK seeks to reduce discomfort and healing time even further than LASEK. .
How does it differ from normal Lasik?
LASIK has been a more popular choice than PRK in the past several years, however PRK has recently been gaining more popularity due to the larger optical zone lasers that allow for laser treatments in patients with pupils up to 9mm. The addition of epi-LASEK as a refractive surgery more closely resembles PRK in that it will probably not affect LASIK candidates as much. For patients that are unable to get LASIK due to unusual cornea shapes or thin corneas, epi-LASEK allows a new option.
EPI-LASEK Information: Pain
Simliar to Lasik. Little is felt for the first 24 hours thanks to the anaesthetic drops, but then it comes on stronger for around 2-3 days.
EPI-LASEK Information: Risks
Much less than LASIK laser eye surgery because there is no cutting made, but the risks of the laser and vision - overtreatment, undertreatment, halos etc are all still there.