Is Epi-LASIK the same as PRK?

PRK: your doctor removes a thin layer of tissue on the cornea (the epithelium). After the excimer laser treatment is complete, the epithelium needs time to grow back, which typically takes 3-5 days. Epi-LASIK: a very thin flap is created on the cornea (thinner than a LASIK flap).

Which is better Epi-LASIK or LASIK?

Both Epi-LASIK and LASIK have proven to be equally-effective methods for laser vision correction. While the initial recovery is usually slower with Epi-LASIK compared to LASIK, the final vision result is the same with either method. In my ophthalmology practice, I currently perform about 70% LASIK and 30% Epi-LASIK.

Which is better PRK vs LASIK?

Overall, PRK is considered to be safer and more effective in the long term because it doesn’t leave a flap in your cornea. The flap left behind by LASIK can be subject to greater damage or complications if your eye is injured.

Do doctors recommend LASIK or PRK?

If you’re active, you might prefer LASIK because you’ll have clear vision faster. But if you’re into contact sports, PRK might be best because LASIK requires the doctor to cut a flap on your cornea, and it could get knocked loose. PRK may be a better choice for people with thin corneas and dry eyes.

Is Epi-LASIK Safe?

Epi-LASIK is considered to be a safer procedure than LASIK. Although flap complications with LASIK are relatively low, they can cause irreversible vision loss and results that are less than optimal.

Is Epi-LASIK painful?

Epi-LASIK is relatively less painful. Epi-LASIK heals faster compared to other procedures. Since this procedure takes the epithelium off using a machine, it results in quick healing. Performing this procedure is easier and creates less stress for the surgeon carrying out the procedure.

Does Epi-LASIK hurt?

With Epi-LASIK, pain is related to the way the epithelial flap is formed and repositioned after the procedure. If you create a sharp epithelial flap with the edge of the blade, you may be very confident that this patient will not suffer from pain.

How long does Epi-LASIK take?

PRK, LASEK, and epi-LASIK are outpatient procedures . They are done under local anesthesia in a surgeon’s office or a same-day surgery center. The procedure takes about 30 minutes, most of which is spent preparing your eye and the laser.

Does PRK leave a scar?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Photorefractive Keratectomy Generally, PRK has some advantages over LASIK. Because there is no flap to heal, there is less scarring and faster healing of the corneal nerves, which can minimize dryness in the eyes after the surgery.

Will Air Force pay for LASIK?

Laser eye surgery is becoming an increasingly popular treatment method for Airmen. Refractive surgeries, better known as LASIK and PRK are fully covered for Airmen meeting procedure requirements (Illustration by Air Force Airman 1st Class Collin Schmidt, 341st Missile Wing, Malmstrom Air Force Base).

Is EPI Lasik Safe?

Can Epi-LASIK be done twice?

There is no magic number but really no one needs a repeat lasik procedure more than one or two times. However every time prior to the procedure, pre lasik testing should be done to ensure suitability.

Is Epi-LASIK bladeless?

EpiLASIK bladeless surgery is considered to be a combination of the LASIK procedure and the PRK procedure. It differs from LASIK in that the surgeon moves the top layer of epithelial cells to the side with a special instrument instead of creating a deeper flap.

How often do people go blind from PRK?

Having said that, infections as a result of laser eye surgery are very rare, affecting around 0.02% of patients. If left untreated, infections can lead to blindness. Therefore, it’s crucial that you use the antibiotics given to you and contact your clinic if you have any concerns.