Epi-LASIK is a relatively new form of laser eye surgery, and it's certainly the most advanced. It combines the best elements of LASIK, LASEK and PRK laser procedures. Basically, the newest addition to the laser eye surgery arena involves separating the epithelial from the top of the cornea. An epikeratome is used, rather than slicing into the cornea to produce a hinged flap, as is done in LASIK surgery. Epi-LASIK is an acronym, where Epi stands for Epithelial, and LASIK for Laser in situ Keratomileusis.
Epi-LASIK is similar to other laser eye surgery techniques, as it also uses a laser beam to reshape the cornea. It's most effective for people with mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. It can also be very effective for people with a thin cornea.
As the latest technique, Epi-LASIK does offer a couple of advantages over the older forms of laser eye surgery. The main advantage over LASIK, is that the cornea itself does not need to be cut, and so the cornea doesn't need to heal. This means the recovery time is faster and vision returns to normal more quickly. Only a thin layer of the epithelial is lifted, and it heals quickly once replaced. As the cornea is untouched, the risks associated with cutting a flap into the cornea are removed. There is also less pain involved for the patient.
Having said that, Epi-LASIK is a type of surgery, and no surgery is without risk. However with proper testing at the initial consultation, the risks are minimal.
Epi-LASIK is an extremely quick procedure, as are all laser eye surgeries, and is complete in less than 10 minutes. Initially, anesthetic drops are put into the eye to minimize the chance of discomfort or pain. Once they've taken effect, the epithelial is moved off to the side so that the laser can remove the required amount of cornea.
It's important for the eye to remain stable and unmoving during the procedure. Then, the epithelium separator flattens the cornea by passing across the eye, thereby making it easier to separate the epithelial. It's not completely removed, but remains attached in the middle. The epithelial is moved out of the way with a small, spatula-like took.
Now the epithelial is moved, the laser begins the job of removing the excess tissue from the cornea with pulses of light. The laser reshapes the cornea to the correct dimensions, as determined during the patient's initial consultation. Finally, antibiotic drops are put into the eye. These help protect the eye against infection, then a bandage similar in design to a contact lens is inserted. Generally, it's possible to resume normal activities the day after Epi-LASIK surgery. It's also important to attend the follow up visits with the eye surgeon to confirm the eye is healing and well and vision is normal.
Being a new procedure, it may take a little longer to find a practitioner who is experienced in the Epi-LASIK procedure. But take your time, ask for referrals, and visit at least a couple of eye surgeons before deciding which one to use. Discuss the eye surgeon's experience, and ask about success rates. Make sure you understand clearly the costs involved, and what appointments you will need to attend both before and after the surgery.
Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Vision-Doctor.com He provides more eye surgery solutions, contact lens information and Epi-LASIK Laser Eye Surgery that you can research in your pajamas on his website.
