LASEK And LASIK - What Is The Difference?

A common mistake with respect to the laser eye surgery led to a confusion between the LASIK and LASEK procedures. To start with the two procedures have the same sounds and the two are typically used to correct vision problems the same - that is, myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism. Moreover, the same lasers used for eye surgery and the two together is necessary to perform any procedure. So what is the difference between the two procedures and how you can be sure that you finally choose the right?

LASIK (Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and LASEK (Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratomileusis) are similar in a number of ways. However, they also differ significantly, eventually requiring surgery candidates for various perspectives and circumstances to seriously consider before choosing a procedure.

One of the biggest differences have to do with the level of procedure for vision correction for each offer. Generally, we recommend LASIK to correct low (-6 to 3.50 diopters or less), while LASEK is recommended for the purpose of correcting higher. Moreover, LASIK requires a certain thickness of the corneal tissue to achieve a painless procedure and a speedy recovery, while LASEK is best suited for flat or thin corneas.

Another difference has to do with the current procedure. Although both types of operations using the same laser, LASIK cuts of the epithelium and stroma to a greater thickness - 100-180 - which is why the corneal tissue to be thicker. During LASEK, the epithelium is cut to a thickness of 50 microns, while the stroma is left intact. In addition, it uses a bit, a blade finer than that used in other procedures.

Both procedures for using the excimer laser to remove corneal tissue under the flap of epithelial tissue / cornea. So the biggest difference is the thickness of the flap, which includes the corneal stroma tissue in LASIK and LASEK epithelial tissue alone.

Another difference between these two procedures is that means less pain than LASIK Lasek - virtually painless - and 20/20 vision can usually be reached. However, there are no complications with LASEK stromal flaps, and these patients usually experience less dry eye.

While it is wise to do some research and know the facts behind the Lasek and Lasik surgery before deciding whether the procedure is done, the best advice you can get from a surgeon in both procedures. Optical surgeon can perform the appropriate tests and to propose a laser procedure is based on your unique visual conditions - to ensure you are receiving treatment that is right for you.