LASIK vs. SBK
Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Olympia, and Tacoma, Washington
With the increasing number of procedures available, patients may sometimes have a hard time distinguishing between their options. When it comes to LASIK and SBK, the procedures themselves may differ only slightly, but one may be more appropriate to some patients than the other.
LASIK
LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure designed to correct some of the most common refractive vision problems, such as myopia (near-sightedness) and hyperopia (far-sightedness). During the procedure, the LASIK surgeon cuts a small flap into the cornea, lifts this flap, and then applies a laser to the area to reshape corneal tissue. The flap is then put back into place, serving as a natural bandage for the eye as the tissue heals.
Despite its popularity and high success rate, however, some patients report minor complications – such as persistent dry eye – after undergoing traditional LASIK procedures. A newer procedure called SBK can, for some patients, offer all of the benefits of LASIK surgery while minimizing or even eliminating possible complications.
SBK
SBK, or sub-Bowman’s keratomileusis, is performed in much the same way as LASIK. The surgeon creates and lifts a flap in the cornea and then uses a laser to reshape the corneal tissue, correcting any problems and restoring focusing power to the eye. The primary difference between the two procedures is in the tool used to cut a flap in the cornea.
Whereas LASIK involves the use of a sharp blade or laser, SBK involves the use of a femtosecond laser, which results in a thinner, smaller flap. Reportedly, use of a femtosecond laser decreases the likelihood that a patient will experience complications post-surgery.
As with any procedure, patients should only make decisions about treatment preferences after close consultation with a licensed practitioner. During this consultation, we can determine which procedure is more likely to lead to the best result and greatest comfort for you. In addition, our staff may recommend other treatments or procedures depending on the nature of your eye problem, the shape and depth of your cornea, your medical history and treatment preferences, and so on.
At the Bellevue LASIK & Cornea Center, we carefully consider all options when providing customized care for our patients. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. Please contact us to schedule an initial complimentary consultation today. We serve the Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Olympia, and Tacoma, Washington areas.