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Epi-LASIK Eye Surgery Procedure

What Is Epi-LASIK?

Epi-LASIK is a refractive surgery technique designed to decrease a person's dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Essentially, it was developed to solve some of the problems with LASIK and LASEK. Epi-LASIK uses techniques from both LASIK and LASEK, but differs in a few key areas.

How It Works
The Epi-LASIK procedure begins by cutting the cornea's outer layer, the epithelium, using a plastic blade, called an epithelial separator, to separate the sheet from the eye. After the epithelial flap is created, it is then lifted and gently folded out of the way. An excimer laser is then used to carefully reshape the cornea. Finally, the epithelial flap is placed back on the eye and a special contact lens is placed over the eye to keep the flap in place while it re-epithelializes. Surgeons use a high-Dk contact lens to protect the surface of the eye and allow the epithelial cells to grow back properly.
LASIK
LASEK / E-LASIK
Epi-LASIK
Wavefront LASIK
Presby LASIK
IntraLase
PRK Laser Surgery
Corneal Inlays / Onlays
Refractive Surgery
You’ll likely experience some pain if you have Epi-LASIK, however it is reportedly less painful than PRK or LASEK. The pain can be managed by using over-the-counter painkillers.

After Epi-LASIK

Two to three days after the surgery, re-epithelialization should occur, so the doctor may advise you to remove the contact lenses. However, do not expect your vision to be immediately perfect. It takes some time to achieve the final result. Some people start seeing the results in days, others in months.

As with any laser eye surgery, after Epi-LASIK, it is imperative that you follow your surgeon's instructions exactly, because the quality of the final vision you achieve is affected by how well your corneas heal. If your doctor prescribes eye drops or any other medication, make sure you use them.

Who Can Have Epi-LASIK?

Epi-LASIK is not for everyone, but many surgeons consider it a better option for some patients who will probably not do so well with LASIK. These include people who have thin corneas, with not enough tissue for a good LASIK flap. For those with professions or hobbies that have an increased chance of being hit in the eye may find Epi-LASIK safer than LASIK because there's no risk of the flap being dislodged.

Epi-LASIK Complications

Although rare, the following complications have been associated with the procedure:
  • Halos, starbursts, and glare
  • Flap complications
  • Under or over correction
Epi-LASIK Benefits The following benefits have been reported in association with the procedure:
  • Patients with thinner corneas can be treated
  • Lower rate of dry eye syndrome
  • Reduced chance of flap complications
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