lasik-logo LASEK, Epi-LASEK Laser Eye Surgery





Epi-LASEK is a Type of Laser Eye Surgery similar to LASIK


Epi-LASEK (laser-assisted epithelial keratomileusis) is often used for patients with thinner corneas

This procedure may also be referred to as epithelial LASIK, epi-LASEK, or E-LASIK. This technique was developed primarily for patients with corneas that are thin or irregularly shaped. Many patients also choose this procedure because it is considered by some eye doctors to be safer and better for people with dry eyes or an active lifestyle.

In LASEK, the very thin, outer layer of corneal tissue, called the epithelium, is lifted up and pushed to the side of the cornea. This allows the surgeon to eliminate the step in LASIK that utilizes the microkeratome to create a slightly thicker corneal flap. Next, the laser is then applied to the eye to sculpt the cornea. The thin epithelial flap is then carefully put back in place. A clear bandage contact lens is then placed on the eye for comfort and to allow the epithelial layer to heal quickly. This contact lens is worn 24 hours a day for about 4 to 7 days before it is removed.

The advantage of creating a very thin epithelial flap is that this tissue can fully re-heal if there is any problem with the creation of this flap. This eliminates flap complications! It also preserves the structural integrity of the cornea because the tissue treated, or removed, is closer to the surface of the cornea. In LASIK, the tissue is treated much deeper in the cornea. Also, by eliminating the cutting of a corneal flap, the corneal nerves that run through the cornea are not severed. This helps maintain the eye's communication with the tear gland to reduce the risk of dryness. These are just a few of reasons that your doctor may recommend LASEK.

The main disadvantages of LASEK are that there is usually a little more discomfort after the procedure and the visual recovery is slower. Most patients who have LASEK will report a mild to moderate amount of ocular discomfort that consists of stinging and burning for 2 to 3 days. They will usually have vision that is good enough to drive in 4-7 days, but it may take weeks to reach the final outcome.

Pros for LASEK

Pros for LASIK
  • No flap complications
  • No flap irregularities
  • No epithelial ingrowth
  • No debris under the flap
  • Less dry eye
  • Less induced Higher Order Abberations
  • Less risk for loss of vision
  • No risk of inflammation under the flap
  • Less scary to patients
  • Preserves the structural integrity of the cornea
  • Less risk of trauma problems
  • Friends have had the procedure
  • Better initial comfort
  • Faster visual recovery and stabilization
  • Sometimes better in very high
  • rescriptions if there is plenty of corneal tissue
  • Still a very safe procedure

What is difference between LASIK, LASEK, and PRK? Please see our Frequently Asked Questions.