About Lasik&PRK

LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis), PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and Radial Keratotomy (RK) are other refractive surgery techniques used to reshape the cornea.

LASEK
(also known as ASA - Advanced Surface Ablation)

LASEK is a technique where the excimer laser is used to treat the surface of the cornea without the need to cut a flap.

The corneal epithelium (outer surface) is softened by the application of an alcohol solution.

© Grange Eye Consultants
The epithelium is then carefully folded away from the middle corneal layer to allow the laser treatment to be applied. As with LASIK the amount of treatment given depends on your individual prescription.

© Grange Eye Consultants
Following treatment the epithelium is replaced to allow healing that is quicker and more comfortable than the PRK procedure, but takes longer than LASIK.

At the end of the procedure a soft contact lens known as a ‘bandage lens’ is fitted on the corneal surface. This has a dual role of protecting the corneal epithelium while it heals, and also reduces but does not eliminate discomfort. The bandage lens stays in place for up to a week, depending on how quickly your eye heals.

Following LASEK, the improved vision is not appreciated until the epithelium has fully healed, usually in about a week. The eye may also be uncomfortable over this time and for the first day or two may be painful.

LASEK may be the preferred procedure for some patients with low refractive errors, thin corneas and specific lifestyle issues. At Grange Eye Consultants we will discuss whether or not LASEK is a suitable procedure for you during your assessment with us.

PRK
PRK was the first excimer laser procedure developed to reshape the cornea, by sculpting, using a laser. Like LASEK the laser treatment is applied to the surface of the cornea without the need for a flap. The difference is the way in which the epithelium is removed: with PRK it is removed by the laser so is not replaced. The treated corneal surface is bare until a new layer of epithelium grows over it which takes from 7 to 10 days. A bandage lens is placed on the eye to protect it and this helps reduce discomfort.

In those patients in whom corneal surface treatment other than LASIK is indicated, PRK has largely been superceded by LASEK. At Grange Eye Consultants, we no longer perform PRK as corneal surface healing is quicker after LASEK and so discomfort is less and visual recovery quicker.

RK
Rarely performed these days, RK involves a surgical blade which is used to cut radial slits in the cornea changing its shape. We do not advocate this type of surgery.

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