1. LASEK Preparation
Anaesthetic drops are applied to the eye.
LASEK Eye Surgery
LASEK (Laser-Assisted-Epithelial-Keratomileusis) eye surgery is an alternative laser refractive procedure to correct short sightedness, long sightedness and astigmatism.
Optical Express is Europe's number one provider of laser eye surgery and if you choose to have LASEK we can help you establish whether your eyes are suitable for surgery. Book your free LASEK consultation today or find your nearest Optical Express clinic.
The LASEK Procedure
LASEK eye surgery - sometimes referred to as Epi-LASEK - involves removing the top layer of the cornea as a flap-like sheet before re-sculpting it with an excimer laser. The epithelial sheet is then replaced on the surface of the eye and a soft contact lens is inserted for a few days following the LASEK eye surgery.
2. Surface Adjustment
The surface of the outer layer of the cornea is gently moved by the surgeon.
3. Cornea Reshaping
Computer controlled pulses of cool laser light are applied to the surface layers of the cornea. As the laser pulses it makes a ticking sound. The outer cornea layer is re-shaped with the laser to correct short sightedness, long sightedness or astigmatism impressions in your eye.
4. Surface Replacement
The surgeon gently replaces the surface layer to its original position.
5. LASEK Completion
A bandage contact lens is placed on to the eye to promote comfort.
The difference between LASEK and LASIK
Statistically, 85 per cent of all laser eye surgery treatments carried out in the USA and Europe are LASIK, rather than LASEK. That's because LASIK has a more convenient, faster recovery time.
However, a certain number of patients may have thin corneas or may be involved in certain contact sports - in these cases, LASEK eye surgery is more appropriate.
Visual outcomes following LASEK surgery are similar to those produced by LASIK. At Optical Express, our specialist refractive optometrists and ophthalmic surgeons will advise you at every stage of the LASEK process.
Common questions about LASEK eye surgery
Q. Will I be suitable for LASEK eye surgery?
A. To ensure the best possible results, we are able to treat most people over 18 years of age who have had a stable prescription for 12 months. Prior to LASEK eye surgery being undertaken, you will attend a laser eye consultation with an Optical Express specialist refractive optometrist who will determine your suitability for LASEK eye surgery based on your personal prescription, healing profile and expectations.
Q. Can I have both eyes treated at the same time with LASEK eye surgery?
A. With LASEK eye surgery, both eyes can be treated at the same time.
Q. Will my eyes be painful during or after LASEK eye surgery?
A. We use anaesthetic eye drops that completely numb your eye so you remain comfortable throughout the LASEK laser eye surgery. With LASEK eye surgery you will feel some mild sensations and discomfort after the treatment, normally in the first 28-48 hours.
