When it comes to choosing between LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) and LASEK (laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy), studies have shown that both are equally effective in correcting vision. In other words, both promise good results for patients. Differences exist between the two. In fact, the choice of one over the other can mean a big difference when it comes to the success of the operation and its long term results. So to help you choose between the two, here are some facts that can help you determine which is the better procedure for your eyes.
LASIK vs LASEK
LASIK and LASEK both use lasers in cutting flaps in the cornea. In LASIK, a femtosecond laser is used in creating the flap in the cornea. The flap is folded back and then the corneal tissue becomes reshaped using an excimer laser. After reshaping the corneal tissue, the flap returns to its natural position. This allows the eye to heal faster. Moreover, healing becomes faster. In LASEK, the flap becomes pushed to the side to allow for the reshaping of the corneal tissue. Thus, the corneal flap is thinner compared to LASIK. For patients who have a thin cornea, the LASIK procedure is better.
The Differences Between the Two
Some doctors will tell you that LASIK is better in certain situations, while there are those who attest that LASEK is superior. A study conducted by the University of Illinois compared the results of those who have been treated with LASIK with those who have been treated with LASEK. The study showed that both are equally safe. When it comes to the effectiveness, similarly both are very effective although LASEK offers better vision. Nevertheless, this superiority is only a little bit better. It takes an award winning doctor like Dr. Amjad Khokhar to discern which surgery is best for which patient.
Now, when it comes to the advantages of one over the other, in LASEK, the structural integrity of the eye is better preserved in most cases but not always. This means little risk of removing too much corneal tissue. Moreover, the complications from the corneal flap are avoided in LASEK. For those who have a high level of myopia, LASEK becomes the better choice. For people who are at risk of eye injury, such as those who play sports, LASIK has its own advantages. LASIK offers faster recover and less discomfort. There is also less pain compared to the LASEK procedure.
Thus, the better choice really depends on many factors. Some patients are a better candidate for LASIK while others are more suited for LASEK. If you want to know which is the right eye correction procedure for you, you might want to visit Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, the leading laser eye surgery center in Houston. They can explain to you in detail what would be the advantages and disadvantages of LASIK and LASEK and which procedure is best for you.
References:
http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/news/20061229/lasik-vs-lasek-both-safe-and-effective
http://www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/lasek.htm
Sugarland Eye & Laser Center leads in providing premium LASIK technologies to Houston, Sugar Land, and the surrounding region. The Center’s award-winning medical director introduced revolutionary technologies such as iLASIK to the region. This technology is used by NASA astronauts, Navy SEALS and Air Force fighter pilots. At Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, you can now receive the same treatment. For more information, please call (281) 240-0478 or visit us at www.houston-lasik.com.
About the Author
Amjad Khokhar, M.D. is Chief LASIK Surgeon at Sugarland Eye & Laser Center. Add Dr. Khokhar on Google+ here.
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