LASIK Surgeon Directory > Epi-LASIK

Epi-LASIK

Epi-LASIK is a refractive surgery technique and an alternative to the normal LASIK procedure. It is very similar to LASEK without the alchohol. In epi-LASIK the surface "skin" of the cornea, the epithelium is treated with an alcohol solution to make its removal easier. The name 'Epi' comes from the instrument that the Epi-LASIK surgeon uses, called an epikeratome. The epikeratome creates an epithelial sheet, to make a thin flap in the epithelium. The laser beam is then applied under the epithelial flap to successfully correct the refractive errors. After the laser has completed it's corrections, the sheet is put back in place to cover the laser-treated area.

Epi-LASIK Potential Benefits and Advantages

Overcomes limitations of LASIK

Reduced flap complications

Lower rates of dry eye syndrome

The treatment for eyes with high powers

The treatment for thin corneas

Very safe for steep and flat corneas

EpiLASIK Candidates

Those not eligible for LASIK

v18 years of age or older

Myopic up to - 20.0 Diopters

Hyperopic + 6.0 Diopters

Astigmatism +_ 6.0 Diopters

Epi-LASIK Potential Complications

Over/undercorrection

Visual acuity fluctuation

Halos around light sources

Starbursts around light sources

Decentered ablation

Corneal Haze

Epithelium erosion

Loss of epithelial flap

Flap complications

Getting Epi-LASIK

Epi-LASIK is a surgical procedure and has risks associated with it. Please consult a LASIK surgeon who specialize in Epi-LASIK and can help you decide if it is best for you.

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