Lasek

In Lasek surgery, a flap is created from the layer of epithelium cells (outer layer) of the cornea. Alcohol is then applied to weaken the connection between the epithelial layer and the Bowman's layer (the layer beneath the epithelial layer). The laser reshapes the cornea and the flap is returned to its place after the laser surgery.

After the surgery, nonprescription contact lenses are placed on the eye for a number of days as part of the treatment.

Advantages of the Technique:

• The cornea is cut only in the epithelial layer, thereby preserving the biomechanical stability of the cornea.
• Enables performing surgery first for nearsightedness and then complementary surgery on relatively thin corneas.
• Short surgery time – about 10 minutes on average, per eye.

Common Side Effects:

Relatively longer periods of recovery and stabilization of vision, approximately three weeks. Patients can feel eye discomfort in the first days after surgery and will sometimes need to take pain relievers for several days.

Who is a suitable candidate for this surgery?

Lasek surgery is especially suitable for patients with corneas that are too thin to be fully repaired by refractive surgery or too thin to undergo repair. The results of the surgery are excellent and resemble those of Lasik surgery, but a longer period of time is required for eyesight to stabilize.