Variation on a LASIK Theme...LASEK

LASEK is a variation on the traditional LASIK procedure, and is basically a version of PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). Also called epithelial LASIK or E-LASIK, it was developed by Italian surgeon, Massimo Camellin, MD, prior to 1999, when it first appeared in the press. The cost of LASEK averages about the same as LASIK and PRK.

LASEK eye surgery may be a safer option than LASIK. Some people, who are not good candidates for the traditional procedure because of thin corneas, may benefit from LASEK. The LASEK procedure preserves more corneal tissue than traditional LASIK eye surgery. It can be used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is recommended for patients with corneas too flat or steep for LASIK, and usually has less post-operative pain and a shorter recovery time than PRK.

LASEK is a relatively new surgery that utilizes a finer blade called a trephine instead of the microkeratome used in LASIK to create a flap in the epithelium, or outer layer of the cornea, instead of a deeper flap in the cornea as with LASIK. Then, the eye is covered with an alcohol solution for about 30 seconds to preserve the epithelial cells and loosen the edge of the flap. The surgeons lift the edge of the flap, fold it out of the way, and continue the treatment, much like traditional PRK. They restore the flap in place and smooth it with a small spatula.

The flap edge heals in a day or so, and patients wear a bandage contact lens for about four days. It takes up to two weeks to recover good vision, which is longer than with LASIK. The corneal nerve regeneration is quicker, because the flap is so much thinner. But the pain is often greater.Patients usually get results similar to those from LASIK or PRK. After the surgery, drops are often needed for at least a month, whereas they are usually needed only 4-5 days with LASIK. Patients should refrain from contact sports and swimming for eight weeks after surgery.

LASEK is a refractive surgery technique that can reduce chances of the complications that are more common with PRK and LASIK. One major problem with PRK in its early years was corneal haze.

LASEK has reduced the risk of that by not removing the epithelial layer of the cornea. Since the flap is very thin, this also helps avoid most LASIK flap complications. It is, however, still possible that

LASEK can result in other complications including dry eyes, haloed or blurred vision and poor night vision.

LASEK is even more experimental than LASIK because the use of the excimer laser for LASEK is not FDA-approved.

LASEK is an accepted "off label use" use of the excimer laser, much as LASIK was in its early years.

LASEK is a variation of LASIK eye surgery and PRK that may be the best choice for you, especially if you have thin, flat or steep corneas. When weighing your options, consider LASEK, but remember that healing from this surgery takes longer than with LASIK, while there are fewer complications.
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