LASIK is a combined microsurgical and excimer laser procedure used to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. In LASIK, either a laser or a highly specialized instrument, a microkeratome, is used to make a thin flap in the cornea. The excimer laser is applied beneath the corneal flap. The flap is then replaced and allowed to heal. No stitches are necessary.
Epi-LASIK (epithelial LASIK) is a refractive surgery procedure used to treat nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. Epi-LASIK is similar to LASIK in that a flap is made with a keratome or mechanical device. But the flap with Epi-LASIK is much thinner and may be more appropriate for patients with thin corneas who would not otherwise be candidates for the conventional LASIK procedure.
The epi-LASIK procedure uses a specific type of microkeratome, called an epi-keratome. The epikeratome precisely separates the thin epithelial sheet — much thinner than a LASIK flap — from the rest of the cornea. Once the epithelium is separated from the rest of the cornea, the thin sheet of epithelial cells is lifted to one side. After a laser is used to treat the cornea, the thin sheet is then moved back into place, where it will self-adhere. After the procedure, a transparent bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea to promote healing.
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