LASEK - Laser Eye Surgery

This is a different method of laser eye surgery, suitable for people with less serious eye focusing problems, or thin corneas, who may be unable to have LASIK treatment.

LASEK (laser assisted epithelial keratomileusis)

Instead of creating a flap, the fine surface layer of the cornea – the epithelium – is loosened and folded back.

The Optegra excimer laser reshapes the cornea’s surface and corrects the eye’s refractive error. With LASEK the eye may be uncomfortable for a few days after treatment and visual recovery is slower than with LASIK.

The LASEK Procedure

	1. Local anaesthetic eye drops are applied to both eyes.
	2. A mild alcoholic solution softens the protective outer layer of the cornea to create a thin epithelial layer, which your Surgeon moves to one side.
	3. The excimer laser is then applied to the eye, reshaping the corneal surface to correct the refractive error.
	4. The eye is then covered with a soft contact lens known as a 'bandage lens'. This protects the epithelial cells as they grow back to cover the cornea. This bandage lens stays in place for up to a week, depending on how quickly the eye heals.