What is PRK laser vision correction treatments?

A: Laser assisted epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) or PRK

The vast majority of laser refractive surgical procedures carried out today are LASIK or SMILE, however, if the cornea is thinner than average, and where it would be difficult to treat all of the refractive error using LASIK, a different method termed LASEK can be adopted.

What is LASEK?

LASEK (laser assisted epithelial keratomileusis) is essentially a variation of PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy – Epithelium is removed) but, instead of a LASIK corneal flap being fashioned, a thin layer of surface corneal epithelial cells is moved to one side and the laser treatment is then applied to the exposed corneal surface.

The epithelial cells are then replaced and a soft ‘bandage’ contact lens is inserted to protect this cell layer. This lens is removed 5 days later. LASEK can be thought of as ‘a half-way house’ between PRK and LASIK and is significantly more uncomfortable than LASIK in the first post-operative week. If the epithelial cells come loose in the first few days the eye becomes painful in much the same way that it would have been following standard PRK.

Visual recovery is also delayed as compared with LASIK and the quality of vision within the first week after the operation is poor.

Benefits for you

The vast majority of patients who undergo LASEK achieve exceptional results without developing post-surgical complications. The results achieved through LASEK are comparable to those achieved through traditional LASIK. One of the biggest benefits of LASEK is that patients who are not candidates for LASIK because of thin corneas or large pupils are usually good candidates for LASEK. Through LASEK, flap-related complications are avoided.

Another benefit of LASEK is that dry eye occurs less frequently than with traditional LASIK. Patients experience a shorter healing time and less pain, and achieve better results than with PRK. LASEK may also be performed more than once if necessary. Because the cornea is not weakened, LASEK may be ideal (in situations where SMILE can’t be performed) for athletes, fighter pilots, and other patients at a high risk for trauma or injury to the eye.

Am I suitable for LASEK eye surgery?

We analyse your eyes in exquisite detail, and customise treatments for each individual eye.

Every individual is different, and the surgeon will be able to give you a final decision on whether laser eye surgery is right for you. For example, if you have dry eyes, the severity of your condition will determine whether you can have laser eye surgery.

For women who are breastfeeding, you will generally be allowed to have treatment three months after weaning. Most people with diabetes or glaucoma will not be suitable for treatment, due to there being a higher likelihood of complications. However, do not hesitate to get in touch for a consultation to discuss your specific case in further detail.

Procedure

LASEK eye procedure is carried out under a topical anaesthesia positioned straight into the patient`s eye. The procedure begins by treatment of the epithelium or outer layer of cells using alcohol for duration of about 30 seconds to detach it from the primary tissue. After this step, the epithelium is then rolled or lifted back to allow the doctor to get entrance the cornea tissue. This newly uncovered tissue is treated using a laser similar to that used in PRK and LASIK eye surgery. Finally, the outer layer of cells or epithelium is replaced, after which the procedure is considered complete.

Your Journey

We have designed our eye surgery pathway to give you adequate space to consider your options without any pressure to sign up for any treatment.

There is no obligation and we will be very pleased to give you information about all vision correction options, answer your questions and organise your suitability assessment.

Suitability Assessment

Assessment is with our expert optometrist. This normally takes an hour. Our optometrist will perform various eligibity tests and measurements and may be able to advise you on what is likely to be the best treatment option for you. At this visit our team will take you through our process, and give you our range of fees and affordable payment and finance options.

You will be given written information guides for the relevant procedures. Our optometrists can also organise an appointment for you to see our surgeon Mr Anandan for your comprehensive vision surgery consultation.

Consultation with Mr Anandan

The consultation with Mr Anandan is the defining stage of the process. The consultation includes a full and comprehensive assessment of your eyes and general health. Mr Anandan will then make his recommendation as to what in his professional opinion is the best vision correction surgery option for you, and explain the reasons behind that recommendation. You will be encouraged to ask questions and your queries will be answered fully. You will leave the consultation with an excellent understanding of all the issues relevant to your treatment to make an informed choice.