What is LASEK Eye Surgery

How it works: LASEK or Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis is a technical variation of PRK. This procedure is most commonly used for candidates that have too thin corneas for LASIK surgery. It works by the epithelium (outer layer of the cornea) being cut by a trephine which is a different cutting tool to the usual microkeratome. The surgeon will then cover the eye with an alcohol solution for about 30 seconds, this is done to loosen the edge of the epithelium.

After the solution has been used for 30 seconds the surgeon uses a tiny hoe to life the edge of the epithelial flap and gently fold it out of the way so the procedure can commence. After the flap is folded back an excimer laser is used to remove the corneal tissue in the eye so the vision can be corrected. Then flap that was made to make access for the correction process is then folded back over and smoothed down to stop any wrinkles.

After the Procedure: The recovery time is quite similar to that of LASIK, although there are some differences. Surgeons say that the eye heals in about a day, but patients most often wear a bandage for around four days. Feelings of irritation usually last for around a day or two although it varies for each individual.

Wavefront Technology

What is Wavefront technology: Wavefront LASIK or Wavefront-guided LASIK is a more recently developed addition to LASIK surgery. It works by using 3-dimensional measurements of how your eye processes images, which is then used as a guideline for how the laser will re-shape the front of the eye.

The Wavefront measurement system enables precise, individualized vision corrective procedures which would be impossible with the traditional LASIK method or with contact lenses and glasses. Wavefront LASIK measures your eyes ability to focus light, the Wavefront technology creates a 3-D map which demonstrates the defects in your eyesight. The information obtained from the map guides the laser to correct the parts of the eye that need correcting.