LASEK FAQs

	FAQs

LASEK

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What is LASEK?

LASEK is an abbreviation for Laser Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy. LASEK is a hybrid of FDA approved PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and FDA approved LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). In this procedure, the surface of the cornea is peeled back, the laser is applied, and the surface layer is then replaced into position.

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Who is a candidate for LASEK?

Patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK

Athletes who may have a possibility for eye trauma

Patients who may have a physically active lifestyle.

Patients with certain corneal diseases

Patients with a certain degree of dry eyes

Patients concerned about a corneal flap
Patients who had previous eye surgery, such as RK or PRK

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What is the difference between LASEK and LASIK and PRK?

LASEK takes the best of both PRK and LASIK. As in PRK, there is no microkeratome used during the LASEK procedure and the surface cells are replaced, like LASIK, for quicker visual recovery. However since only the epithelial cells (the outer most layer of cornea) are used in making the LASEK flap, there is no permanent corneal flap.

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Will I need reading glasses after my surgery?

Generally, patients under the age of 40 still read well without the use of glasses following the surgery. Patients over the age of 40 may need reading glasses for small print. Presbyopia is a term that refers to the natural weakening of the muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need reading glasses. LASIK does not correct or prevent presbyopia. Should you fall into this age category, we will be happy to discuss monovision with you at your consultation. This is an option that allows many patients the convenience of near and distance vision without the use of reading glasses.

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When can I return to sporting activities or my physically active lifestyle?

Once your vision allows, you can resume all activities. You should however, avoid intense or direct strong sunlight and dirty or dusty environments for as long as possible after treatment.

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How soon can I drive after LASEK?

We will require that you have someone drive you home following your procedure. However, you may drive when you feel comfortable enough to drive safely, possibly the next day.

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Do I have to avoid all activities post-operatively?

No. We typically demonstrate to the patients that they can bend over immediately after surgery, pick up 20-30 pounds, and shower, provided they don't get water into their operative eye. We do ask that they wear an eye shield at bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so they do not inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks, with glasses being prescribed between the 3rd and 6th week visit.

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Why can't I wear my contact lens wear before my preoperative exam?

Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea similar to how a watchband can make an imprint on your wrist. If you have your eyes examined too soon after removing your contact lenses, several of the eye tests could give inaccurate results and negatively influence your surgical outcome. Discontinue wearing soft contact lenses according to the doctor's recommendation prior to the preoperative measurements and surgery. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens wearers may require a more protracted amount of time out of lens wear. Our Doctor will advise you if your corneas have not returned to their natural shape after removing your contact lenses.

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Will I still need glasses or contact lenses?

You may need glasses or other corrective lenses after the procedure on a temporary or permanent basis.

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What if I had a previous corneal transplant or radial keratotomy?

Research has shown that LASEK can be successfully performed after a corneal transplant or previous radial keratotomy (RK) refractive surgery. However, the decision depends on many factors. See us for a pre-operative consultation and exam to see if you are a good candidate.

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