Epi LASIK is a laser eye procedure that blends the techniques used in traditional LASIK surgery with those used in LASEK surgery. It is typically performed on patients who are poor candidates for LASIK surgery, such as those with thin corneas or too little tissue to create a LASIK flap, dry eyes or concerns with a stromal flap. Unlike traditional LASIK, there is no risk of a flap being dislodged following Epi LASIK surgery. Therefore, this can be an ideal procedure for patients whose professions or hobbies put them at high risk for eye injuries.
The Procedure
The method used in Epi LASIK surgery differs from that used in LASIK or LASEK surgery. When performing Epi LASIK, a surgeon at our Boston practice first accesses underlying corneal tissue by using a non-sharp polymer proprietary separator to gently lift an intact, hinged sheet of the corneal epithelium or top layer of cells of the cornea. After the laser is applied, the epithelial sheet is replaced and acts as a natural 'bandage' as the epithelium regenerates, preserving the structural integrity of the cornea. Current studies indicate that Epi-LASIK provides a more stable, long-term visual outcome.
Patients who undergo Epi LASIK may experience some pain, but reportedly not as much as patients experience with PRK or LASEK. You will wear a special bandage contact lens for several days to a week, during which time the vision may remain blurry and the eye may be a little irritated. The fluctuation of your vision is normal and indicates that the eye is healing. Most patients notice improved vision a few days after surgery, but it can take between three and six months to achieve final results.
LASEK surgery - Another alternative to LASIK
LASEK surgery is another procedure offered at our Boston center primarily for patients whose corneas that are too thin or flat for LASIK. In this procedure, a surgeon at our Boston practice first cuts the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) with a fine blade called a trephine. Next, the eye is covered with an alcohol solution for 30 seconds before it is sponged off. The solution helps to loosen the edges of the epithelium.
After gently lifting the edge of the epithelial flap and folding it out of the way, the surgeon uses an excimer laser to sculpt corneal tissue. Finally, the flap is put back in place. Patients may be asked to wear a bandage contact lens for about four days after surgery.
Many patients who receive LASEK surgery at our Boston practice experience some eye irritation in the first two days after surgery. After undergoing this procedure, it can take between four and seven days for patients to recover good vision.
If you are a poor candidate for LASIK surgery and believe LASEK surgery or Epi LASIK may be a good procedure for you, contact our Boston practice.
