In 2003, the inventor of LASIK (Dr. Pallikarus of Crete, Greece) introduced a new surgical procedure for LASER Vision Correction called Epi-LASIK. This new technique is potentially safer than LASIK because a corneal flap is not required. There are many patients with thin corneas who are not good candidates for traditional LASIK, who will now be able to undergo Epi-LASIK successfully. Research has recently shown that surface treatments (such as Epi-LASIK and PRK) are associated with less night vision complaints, such as "glare" and "halos" around lights.

Epi-LASIK is an abbreviation for Epithelial Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis. This procedure is an advanced type of corneal surface ablation to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Like the other Laser Eye Surgery surface ablation procedures such as PRK and LASEK, it attempts to merge the desirable features of LASIK, PRK and LASEK. In this procedure, a specially designed microkeratome like instrument is used to create a thin flap of corneal epithelium. It achieves this by gently separating the epithelium from the underlying corneal layer without cutting. In Epi-LASIK, no alcohol solution is applied to loosen and remove the surface of the epithelium as in LASEK. Epi-LASIK is similar to LASEK in that it is a LASIK Eye Surgery procedure that can be used for patients who have thin corneas and might not otherwise be good candidates for ordinary LASIK due to dry eyes or large pupils. Once the epithelial layer has been removed, the Excimer Laser is then used to reshape the cornea to correct your prescription, as in LASEK, PRK and LASIK. Upon completion of the Excimer Laser application, the epithelial flap is then returned to its original position.

Epi-LASIK has a relative advantage in that it avoids any of the potential complications encountered while making a conventional LASIK flap and during the flap healing process. Compared to LASEK and PRK it has been shown that Epi-LASIK can allow a more rapid visual recovery; perhaps 3-4 days versus 7 days or more with PRK and LASEK.

Call Fisher Eye Center at 239.403.EYES for more information or to schedule your free evaluation!  You may also click here to schedule your FREE consultation online.

Welcome |  Our Practice |  Meet Dr. Fisher |  Lasik |  Epi-Lasik |  Cataracts |  Near Vision CK |  FAQs |  Appointment Request |  Contact
Site Developed by Prosites.com