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LASEK
in Denver
Laser epithelial keratomileusis
Have you ever wondered
what it would be
like to see without your glasses or contacts?
Pioneered by Italian surgeon,
Massimo Camellin, M.D., LASEK is a refractive procedure
that is similar to LASIK. LASEK
is a relatively new laser vision procedure that combines elements of
PRK and LASIK to treat low to high levels
of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, and may offer some
advantages over both. With LASEK, no microkeratome is used and only
the very top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is used to make a protective
corneal flap. Unlike in PRK, the epithelium is
not removed in LASEK. The surgeon uses the excimer
laser to reshape the cornea and correct your refractive error. Your
surgeon may decide that LASEK is a better option for
you, especially if your eyes are be too dry or your corneas that are
too thin for LASIK. Based on the individual
situation, your eye surgeon will recommend the surgery option that best
suits your needs.
LASEK may be for
those who:
- want to reduce or eliminate
their dependence on glasses or contacts
-
are over 18 years of age
-
are nearsighted, farsighted
or have astigmatism
-
have had a stable eye
prescription for at least one year
-
have no health issues
affecting their eyes
-
have wide pupils
-
have corneas too thin
for LASIK
-
who do not want LASIK
because it requires a microkeratome
What
to Expect on Surgery Day
You will arrive at the laser center about an hour prior to your procedure.
Once you have been checked-in and settled comfortably, you will be
prepared for surgery. The area around your eyes will be cleaned and
a sterile drape will be applied. You may be given a sedative to help
you relax. Eye drops will be used to numb your eyes; no injections
or needles are used. When your eye is completely numb, an eyelid holder
will be placed between your eyelids to keep you from blinking. Next,
a specially designed instrument will be placed on your eye around
the area that will have the laser applied. Then a diluted alcohol
solution will be placed in the instrument, which loosens the epithelium
from the surface of the cornea. The epithelium is then pushed to the
side.
You will be asked to look
directly at a target light while the laser reshapes your cornea. The
laser will be programmed with the information gathered in your pre-operative
exam. The laser treatment will be completed in less than a minute or
two, depending on the amount of correction needed. To finish the procedure,
your Denver LASEK doctor will smooth the flap back into place. A temporary
bandage contact lens will be used to keep the epithelium in place and
reduce post-operative discomfort.
Following your procedure,
your eye(s) may be shielded for protection. Your vision will probably
be a little blurry at first, so someone will need to drive you home.
You should relax for the rest of the day. You may experience mild to
moderate discomfort for two or three days. You will be given instructions
on how to manage this discomfort before you leave. Most patients resume
normal activities within two to three days. Vision can fluctuate for
up to six months.
After LASEK, you may experience
some visual side effects. These visual side effects are usually mild
and most often diminish over a few days to a few weeks.But there is
a slight chance that some of these side effects won't go away completely,
such as feelings of dryness, glare and halos.
If you
think you may be a good candidate for LASEK,
find out more by talking to an experienced
LASEK surgeon.
For more
information on what LASEK and other vision correction
procedures can do for you, Contact a Denver eye surgeon
Schedule
a LASIK consultation with a Denver eye doctor
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