Epi-LASIK is a procedure that has evolved from PRK and LASEK. The procedure involves the use of a microkeratome, similar to that used in Traditional LASIK, however it does not cut the cornea, instead separating the epithelial layer. The layer is preserved and replaced following the reshaping of the cornea using the excimer laser. Unlike LASEK which uses alcohol to separate the epithelium and in the process can kill epithelial cells, Epi-LASIK permits the cells to live and continue to survive following replacement.

Epi-LASIK like PRK and LASEK is still as surface ablation procedure and to date, no useful scientific randomized controlled study has been performed to investigate whether this new method leads to the same problems during the healing process such as scarring and regression (reappearance of the refractive error).

At Centre for Sight, LASIK using Intralase (IntraLASIK) - laser ablation in the stromal bed of the cornea and not the surface, continues to be the procedure of choice. With Intralase, the stated advantages of surface ablation are invalid as major flap complications do not occur and thin corneas are highly amenable to treatment by Intralasik.

For more information on IntraLASIK download our brochure