Epi-LASIK is an improved Laser Vision Correction technique that combines the advantages of PRK and LASIK. PRK removes the epithelium (the front skin of the eye) with either a laser or a special brush. Once removed, the surface of the eye is treated with the laser. After the procedure, a bandage contact lens is placed on the eye for a few days while the epithelium slowly regenerates itself.
LASEK uses alcohol to separate the epithelium, but with LASEK, the epithelium is pushed aside before the laser treatment, then repositioned over the cornea before the bandage contact lens is placed on the eye. The use of alcohol kills the epithelial cells and causes mild to severe swelling of the cornea that results in discomfort, light sensitivity, and a slower return to functional vision. Traditional LASIK uses a microkeratome blade to create a flap that is hinged to one side prior to the laser treatment. The thickness of the flap can eliminate those patients as a candidate who have thinner than average corneas or higher amounts of myopia.
The Epi-LASIK procedure uses a unique microkeratome to mechanically separate the epithelium to make a flap, similar to traditional LASIK flap, but much thinner and without the use of a blade.
Epi-LASIK is ideal for treating patients with thin corneas since it removes about thirty-five percent less tissue that LASIK. Treating the surface of the cornea can produce a more predictable outcome for wavefront guided “Custom” Laser vision correction. Other advantages of Epi-LASIK include: earlier visual recovery, less postoperative discomfort and haze, less risk of complication associated with traditional LASIK, and less risk of extended postoperative dry eye problems.
