Understanding LASEK
Laser Eye Surgery
The Cure for Eye Problem: LASEK Laser Eye Surgery
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) laser eye surgery
combines the most beneficial fundamentals of two other types
of laser eye surgery and then combines them into one very
effective surgical procedure, which are the LASIK and PRK.
Unlike the LASIK procedure which usually makes use of a sharp
blade to slice off the top of the cornea, instead, LASEK uses
a solution made up of diluted alcohol to loosen a thin layer
from the epithelium so that it can be moved off to the side.
The Benefits
One benefit of LASEK laser eye surgery is that it will eliminate
the risks related to the corneal flap. With LASIK surgery,
a very sharp blade called a microkeratome is used to cut the
corneal flap. Related to this, there were several cases in
which the flap was cut too deeply or cut off completely instead
of leaving it attached with a hinge, both of which are capable
of causing any number of serious vision problems.
Healing is also faster with LASEK due to the fact that there
is no cutting and because the epithelial flap can be used
somewhat as a natural bandage after the procedure is completed.
And unlike PRK, the chances of developing a glare post-surgery
are greatly diminished when using LASEK.
Risks and disadvantages
Risks linked to LASEK laser eye surgery are greatly reduced
since there is no sharp device is being used to cut the cornea.
There will be some pain but it is minimal and can be treated
with over the counter medicines. Also, it is not possible
to guarantee any type of vision results and glare, halos and
dry eyes are potential side effects.
The LASEK procedure
Before LASEK procedure, a patient must provide the eye surgeon
with his or her entire medical history. Eye tests and other
diagnostic procedures are taken under consideration to make
sure the patient is a good candidate for LASEK laser eye surgery.
On the day of the procedure, the eye will be cleaned and prepped
and an eye drop to numb the eye is administered. A special
tool will hold the eyelids in place, preventing them from
blinking.
The diluted alcohol solution is then applied, then the epithelium
loosens, and it is gently pushed out of the way. The pre-calculated
beams of ultra violet light are then pulsed onto the cornea
and in just a minute or so, the entire surgery is done.
Most patients will have blurred vision initially and won't
be able to drive home from the procedure. However, at most
they only need a day or two to rest. Vision will vary over
the ensuing months.
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