Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy
LASEK is a derivative of PRK whereby the epithelium is loosened with 20% alcohol. This is dislodged and put to one side and then replaced after the laser treatment. It has been suggested that LASEK is less painful than PRK and less likely to produce long-term haze. This has not been proven to be true, and certainly not in our experience at Centre for Sight. But the procedure is popular, especially in centres on the high street.
Both PRK and LASEK are more painful than LASIK or IntraLASIK, and visual recovery can take a few days to a week, compared to only one day with IntraLASIK.
At Centre for Sight, PRK or LASEK is only performed in exceptional circumstances (e.g. if there is an abnormality of the corneal epithelium, scarring or surface irregularity). We do not routinely recommend this procedure because of pain, delayed visual recovery, risk of haze and overall patient satisfaction. We DO NOT use any toxic anti-scarring drugs like Mitomycin C, frequently used without patient knowledge by advocates of PRK, LASEK or Epi-LASIK.
PRK can be very uncomfortable afterwards. Because of this, many practitioners advocate only performing one eye at a time. LASEK can be performed on both eyes on the same day, but you will not be able to work or function properly for up to a week.
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