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LASEK in Boston
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 Boston 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.

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