Epi-LASIK
Indication
Epi-LASIK is used to correct nearsightedness up to -6 dpt and astigmatism, especially in patients with thin corneas when LASIK cannot be performed or is at its limit.
The Epi-LASIK Procedure
Epi-LASIK is technology developed from PRK and LASEK. All three procedures correct the refractive error by ablation of the corneal surface.
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(1) Corneal cell layers, (2) The outer cell layer, the epithelium, is removed and exposes the Bowmann Membrane, (3) The Excimer laser ablation, (4) The epithelium is carefully rolled back. For protection, a soft "therapeutic" contact lens is placed on the eye.
Whereas the older PRK uses a blade to remove the epithelium (the outer corneal surface of the eye), and with LASEK the epithelium is separated with alcohol, Epi-LASIK uses a microkeratome to carefully remove the corneal epithelium.
Usually, Epi-LASIK is performed on both eyes on the same day.
A slower postop healing process and sometimes noticeable postsurgical pain are the two disadvantages of Epi-LASIK.