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LASEK, despite its name, is really a modified form of PRK and is a moderately popular form of surface ablation.
In LASEK, a solution of alcohol is used to soften and temporarily remove the epithelium (outer "skin" of the cornea). An excimer laser is then applied to the stroma underneath and then the epithelium is replaced.
LASEK is often offered to patients who do not have sufficient corneal thickness to have LASIK performed safely, such as those with high prescriptions and/or thinner than average corneas.
Like all surface ablation procedures, LASEK takes longer to heal than LASIK and may involve more discomfort or pain during the first day or two. However, what it loses in "convenience factor" or "wow" effect it may gain in increased safety. LASEK does not use a microkeratome blade and therefore the complications associated with those blades are eliminated. It also reduces the risk of ectasia by not compromising as much of the cornea, and it may possibly provide superior quality optics as there is no flap interface. |
