A-Z OF EYES

Categories - Eye Treatment - LASEK

LASEK

LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis) is a variation of PRK. It is also called E-LASIK or epithelial LASIK. Once again this procedure is used to reduce the chance of complications that can occur with a flap or when the cornea is too thin.

LASEK procedure attempts to preserve the epithelium (outer layer of the eye) unlike PRK where the epithelial layer is completely removed.

A fine surgical instrument is used to outline the epithelial layer of the cornea while a diluted solution of alcohol is applied for 45 seconds to loosen the epithelial layer. The eye is then irrigated with saline to remove all traces of the alcohol. The surgeon will then gently fold back the epithelial flap and use the Excimer laser to reshape the cornea as with LASIK or PRK. Once the laser treatment is complete the epithelial flap is replaced back onto the eye.