Lasik and Lasek

LASIK AND LASEK

Are you considering laser eye surgery to correct your vision but unsure about the differences between LASIK and LASEK? At Eye Clinic London, we specialise in both procedures, offering tailored solutions to various refractive errors. This introduction aims to clarify these options, helping you understand which might be best suited for your vision needs.

Understanding Refractive Errors

Refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye impedes the light from focusing correctly on the retina. Common types include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The prevalence of these conditions varies, but they are among the most common eye issues globally.

Treatment Process

Both procedures involve reshaping the cornea with a laser to correct vision. The main difference lies in how the eye is prepared for the laser treatment. In LASIK, the key difference lies in the preparation of the cornea. The procedure involves creating a thin flap on the corneal surface, which is then lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying cornea. This flap is subsequently repositioned after the laser treatment. In contrast, LASEK does not involve creating a flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is loosened and moved aside, allowing the laser to directly reshape the cornea's surface. After the laser application in LASEK, the epithelium is repositioned, and a protective contact lens is placed on the eye to aid healing.