LASEK Eye Surgery
Lasek eye surgery is a procedure where the cornea of the eye is reshaped to focus light on the retina for clearer vision.
Clients with vision problems have found Lasek eye surgery (Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratomileusis) to be simple, effective and life-changing.
Lasek vs. Lasik
Both Lasik and Lasek surgery reshape the cornea and treat refractive vision errors, but the basic difference is the thickness of the flap the surgeon creates.
In Lasek surgery, the ophthalmologist only cuts into the epithelial layer of the cornea and makes a much thinner flap. Lasek surgery is usually preferred for patients with corneas too thin or flat for Lasik surgery.
How Is Lasek Eye Surgery Performed?
The procedure is done as a walk-in, walk-out service that begins with the client laying down and getting numbing eye drops to lessen any discomfort.
The physician will line up the laser with the eye and use a special device to hold the eyelids open. The surgeon will then create a flap in the cornea which folds back out of the way.
Using the laser, the surgeon will begin to re-sculpt the corneal tissue into the shape that will focus the most light onto the retina for clearer vision.
The corneal flap will then be placed back over the newly shaped area.
What Are The Benefits Of Lasek Eye Surgery?
Recovery takes slightly longer for Lasek surgery compared to Lasik surgery, but Lasek might be the better choice if you have a high-impact job or hobby as there is less risk of the corneal flap being dislodged after surgery.
What Are The Risks And Recovery Time?
Recovery time after surgery is generally very short. The surface of the eye usually heals within 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. After surgery, the client may have a few restrictions, but will be able to get back to normal activities the following day.
Lasek surgery, as with any other type of medical procedure performed on the eyes can carry some risks and sometimes have temporary side effects.
Clients may experience increased dryness of eyes which can be relieved with artificial tears. Some after-effects can also included light sensitivity or seeing halos or glare at night.
Wearing sunglasses for several weeks after surgery when outdoors can help alleviate discomfort from light sensitivity. The eyes typically adjust within a few weeks.
Does LASIK surgery hurt?
No. The procedure itself is pretty much painless. You will feel some slight pressure and notice the flashing light of the laser, but most patients experience no discomfort.
About10% of patients will have more serious discomfort or complications and may need medication or treatment post-surgery.
How Long will the Correction Last?
Laser correction should last for the rest of your life. Most studies show cornea modifications stay fairly stable and last permanently.
Occasionally, some regression can occur, but it is very rare.
Am I A Good Candidate For Lasek Eye Surgery?
Good candidates for this procedure are those who have vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, and who may have slightly thinner corneal tissue.
How Much Does Lasek Eye Surgery Cost?
As with any medical procedure, the price of Lasek surgery can vary depending on the area of country, the physician and whether one or both eyes are involved.
A recent survey conducted in the industry found the average cost for Lasek surgery to be roughly the same as Lasik surgery - $2,100 per eye.
