Epi-LASIK
Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Olympia, and Tacoma, Washington
Epi-LASIK, or epipolis laser in situ keratomileusis, is a refinement to more traditional LASIK procedures. It allows patients who may otherwise be ineligible for LASIK procedures to experience the benefits of refractive eye surgery.
How Epi-LASIK Differs from LASIK
More specifically, those with especially thin or steep corneas may benefit from Epi-LASIK surgery over other LASIK procedures. That is because the implement used in regular LASIK procedures may cut too deeply, creating the need for a thinner flap. Rather than a sharp blade or laser, a surgeon performing Epi-LASIK uses a duller blade to create a flap in the cornea’s outer layer only. The rest of the surgery is performed in ways similar to LASIK, including lifting away the flap and using a laser to sculpt the corneal tissue.
What to Expect After Epi-LASIK Surgery
Patients undergoing Epi-LASIK treatment can expect to be fitted with protective lenses for a few days post-surgery and to manage any pain with over-the-counter medications. Your vision may take anywhere between three days and six months to reach its final level as your corneal tissue heals and adapts. Although the recovery time is generally longer than with LASIK surgery, the procedure itself may minimize risk and potential complications for some patients.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Epi-LASIK
As previously noted, Epi-LASIK may be especially appropriate for those with thin or steep corneas; however, people in professions involving physical risk may also opt for this procedure. That is because the chance of patients experiencing a dislodged flap during injury is less than with LASIK.
Epi-LASIK was designed to meet the needs of a higher number of patients with a more diverse set of needs. As with any procedure, of course, it is first important to understand the nature of your vision problem and to get a sense of the size and shape of your affected corneas.
At the Bellevue LASIK & Cornea Center, we can help you determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Epi-LASIK or for another LASIK variant procedure. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. Please contact us if you would like to schedule an initial consultation in Seattle, Olympia, Bellevue and the surrounding areas.