Important facts about the surgeryLASIK and Lasek eye procedures
Lasek and LASIK are two laser eye correction surgeries used to treat farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism. Both procedures reshape part of the cornea to improve vision.NearsightednessIn both surgeries, part of the cornea is reshaped to correct vision issues. This section in health and wellness explains more about these procedures.SelMagzWe provide explanations about LASIK and Lasek surgeries and how they differ from each other.
What is LASIK and how is it performed?
LASIK is one of the most common and successful eye surgeries. Recovery time is short, and patients can easily return to daily activities within 1 to 2 days. Studies show that 95% of people who undergo LASIK are satisfied with the results and their vision.
Laser refractive surgeries, including LASIK, are the most popular methods to correct eye refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These corrections use two laser techniques: surface ablation and deep ablation. Surface techniques include PRK, Lasek, and epi-LASEK, while deep ablation includes LASIK and Femtolaser surgery.
In deep ablation methods like LASIK and Femtolaser, a small flap is created on the cornea with a microkeratome or femtosecond laser, then excimer laser reshaping is performed underneath the flap.
What is Lasek and how is it performed?
Lasek eye surgery is a common procedure to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.It involves changing the curvature of the cornea.During Lasek, the outer layer of the cornea is removed and then repositioned. It takes a few days for the eye to fully recover and rebuild.
In Lasek, the excimer laser is used to modify the shape and structure of the cornea to correctly focus light onto the retina for better vision.
Common questions about LASIK and Lasek surgery
Is everyone a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery?
Not everyone is suitable for LASIK, and in some cases, Lasek is recommended. Lasek is less invasive and may be better suited for some people. Surgeons may suggest Lasek instead of LASIK. Lasek is suitable for those with thinner corneal layers or insufficient tissue for LASIK surgery.
Both LASIK and Lasek improve vision similarly and have positive outcomes. The choice of surgery depends on individual conditions and the surgeon’s judgment.
What is the difference between LASIK and Lasek?
Both LASIK and Lasek are procedures that permanently reshape the cornea to correct vision. The main difference is how they are performed: LASIK involves creating a corneal flap, while Lasek involves loosening and moving the surface layer of the cornea before reshaping it. The eye heals within 4-5 days after both procedures, though Lasek may involve more discomfort and a slightly longer visual recovery. LASIK typically has a quicker and easier recovery with fewer complications. Ultimately, both procedures have high success rates and similar final results.
Which method is safer?
Both methods are safe and effective, with results stabilizing after six months. PRK or Lasek may cause more discomfort in the first night after surgery and have a longer visual recovery time, but they usually have fewer complications during and after surgery and are less costly.
Mainly, the belief is that Lasek is better for active individuals who move their heads often, reducing the risk of corneal tear due to the different incision process. Therefore, surgeons may prefer Lasek for such cases.
Some surgeons believe LASIK is more effective for conditions like myopia. According to SelMagz, some experts think Lasek has fewer risks overall. Both surgeries carry very low risks and can bring many benefits with minimal side effects. The final decision depends on thorough assessment by a specialist who considers all factors.
Criteria for Choosing the Treatment Method
The following factors determine which patient is suitable for which type of surgery:
Corneal Thickness
Patients with thin corneas or high prescriptions are not good candidates for femtosecond laser or deep ablation because these procedures reduce the remaining corneal thickness and may cause keratoconus. The surgeon measures corneal thickness using imaging techniques like topography, OCT, or Pentacam.
Evaluating the curvature of the anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea
If the patient is over 30 years old, not diagnosed with keratoconus, but has abnormal anterior or posterior corneal curvature, surface treatments like Lasek may be preferred over femtosecond. When corneal thickness and shape are normal, Femtolaser surgery is the best option. Patients interested in LASIK must not show signs of keratoconus, which is a genetic disease, and the doctor will determine the suitable procedure based on medical history.
Tip: For better decision-making, it is important to review the advantages and disadvantages of both LASIK and Lasek, discussed comprehensively in the article “Lasek or LASIK: What is the difference?”Understanding the differences between Lasek and LASIKis essential for making an informed choice.
