Why Do People Get LASEK instead of LASIK? - Refractive Surgery Information

LASEK is another option if the preferred procedure LASIK is unavailable to you. There are several reasons why you might opt for LASEK instead of LASIK.

If you have a problem with having a flap in your eye, then you will want to opt for LASEK instead of LASIK. There is a thin flap cut in to the outer surface of your eye with the LASEK procedure however it is much thinner than the flap that is cut for the LASIK procedure. The flap for the LASEK procedure is only 50 microns thick where as the flap cut for the LASIK procedure is 100 to 180 microns thick.

If you have thin, flat or less corneal tissue, you cannot be a candidate for LASIK, however you would be an excellent candidate for LASEK. The procedure for LASEK preserves more corneal tissue and you do not have the complications associated with the flap made during the LASIK procedure. There is also less risk of dry eye with the LASEK procedure than with the LASIK.

If you are over the age of 40, you may want to consider LASEK. This is because LASIK does not correct or prevent presbyopia, which is the natural weakening of the muscles, causing us to need reading glasses. However, if you want to be free of all corrective lenses including reading glasses, you may want to ask your surgeon about monovision.

If you are concerned with the results of the procedures, there is no need for alarm. The results of both procedures LASEK and LASIK are about the same. So with LASEK you will not be settling for a lesser result than you will get with the LASIK procedure.

LASEK patients have reported more discomfort than with LASIK and it usually has a longer healing time. The results and healing of LASEK are not that much different than LASIK. With LASEK the flap edges will heal within one day. You should be able to drive in about a week and you should have crisp vision in about six to eight weeks. Recovery is slightly longer than with LASIK about four to seven days.

With LASIK the healing and recovery time is two days up to a week. You should be able to drive in one to three days following the procedure. However there could be flap complications.

As you can see there are pros and cons to both procedures. If you are a candidate for both procedures you will have to weigh the pros against the cons to decide on the procedure that is right for you. Consulting with an experienced refractive surgeon will help you make the right decision.

For more information on PRK and LASEK as well as ReSTOR intraocular lenses and LASIK surgery near Iowa, it is important to locate a skilled surgeon in your area for a consultation.