What Is The Difference Between Laser, Lasik & Lasek Eye Surgery?

It can seem complicated when researching what is the difference between laser, lasik & lasek eye surgery?

If you are considering laser eye surgery and doing your own research then you may have come across various medical terminology that is confusing.

Firstly, you need to understand that Lasik and Lasek are both different forms of laser eye surgery i.e. laser eye surgery is the generic term.

You should also understand that your surgeon will recommend the best treatment for you after a full eye examination. It is not something you will or can decide without the assistance of an ophthalmic surgeon.

However, here is a short guide to explain the difference between laser, lasik & lasek eye surgery.

What is Lasik Eye Surgery?

Lasik stands for Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis. This is by far the most common form or laser eye surgery.

Most people who need the treatment have a flat, thick cornea rather than the curved cornea in people who have excellent eyesight. Lasik essentially bends the cornea to improve your eyesight. Most people will achieve 20/25 vision or better from Lasik. 

During a lasik eye surgery procedure a laser will create a very thin protective flap on your cornea. This protective flap will then be lifted up and another laser is then used to enable the flat cornea to bend where it can refract the light more effectively. It does this by making the cornea thinner.

The recovery process is very quick. On the day or your surgery you will need someone to bring you home as your vision will be blurry. However, you should be able to return to work and even start driving again within 24 hours of the surgery. Most patients have an immediate improvement in their vision but for others it may take a few weeks for their vision to fully settle down.

What is Lasek Eye Surgery?

Lasek stands for Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy. This is less common than Lasik and your surgeon will recommend it if you have a thin cornea or certain medical conditions.

In Lasek no flap is created and only one laser is used. A small amount of alochol solution is placed on the surface of the eye and then an ultra-thin sheet is applied. The solution loosens the thin layer of cells on your eye’s surface called the epithelium. These cells then stick to the sheet, which is then gently moved to the side of your eye, giving your surgeon access to the cornea without the need for a flap.

After the reshaping of your cornea, a protective contact lens will be put on your eye for up to four days in order to increase your comfort whilst it heals.

The recovery time is longer for Lasek eys surgery. Many patients will notice an immediate improvement in their vision, however, it may take a number of days for it to settle. As with Lasik your surgeon will have you come back for an examination the day after surgery and then again a few days later. Aftercare is always an important part of the treatment. 

Suitability Examination

Your next step might be to speak with our consultant ophthalimic surgeon who will discuss all aspects of the surgery with you. This is done by phone or video session. We offer this consultation free of charge or obligation and is highly recommended.

Ultimately you will need to come in for a suitability examination where the surgeon will be able to confirm or may potentially change his recommendation. This is comprehensive eye exam and lasts at least an hour.

If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to contact us by calling now on 01-280 9248.

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