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Epi LASIK surgery can be considered to be a cross between LASIK and LASEK but also differs from them.
In LASIK surgery the surgeon uses an instrument called microkeratome to create a thin flap which enables him to lift the outside layer of the cornea. The cornea is then reshaped by him using an excimer laser. The flap is then re-positioned back on the cornea and acts as a natural bandage.
LASEK surgery involves the surgeon using a fine blade called trephine to make a fine cut on the epithelium and then using alcohol to loosen it, so that the surgeon can fold the epithelium aside and work on the cornea underneath. The epithelium remains attached to the eye.
The same procedure is repeated with the other eye.
Epi LASIK is a perfect procedure for you if:
Since this procedure does not involve the creation of a thicker flap above the cornea, you can opt for this procedure if you seek to avoid flap-related complications such as infections, inflammations, flap dislodgement or flap wrinkles.
This surgery is not for you:
Please Note: You need to have stable vision for a year before the date of the surgery.
Some common side effects of Epi LASIK surgery include:
These symptoms will gradually improve as the eyes heal. Slightly serious but rare side effects include:
Unlike LASIK surgery, after the Epi-LASIK procedure, which is a surface surgery, there are no flap-related complications.
Prior to going for an evaluation by an ophthalmologist, it is recommended to stop using contact lenses for four weeks and switch to wearing glasses. Wearing contact lenses over a long period of time changes the shape of the cornea. The cornea then takes a long time to assume its natural shape. It is similar to how a watch band leaves an imprint on the hand when worn for a long time. Therefore, an evaluation and surgery based on the cornea which has not assumed its natural shape can have negative implications.
During the evaluation you need to discuss in depth with your doctor about whether you are a good candidate for Epi LASIK surgery, what are the alternative surgeries you can opt for, what are the risks and complications involved, what can you expect after the surgery, and what are the pre and post surgery guidelines.
The doctors usually advise Epi LASIK surgery if you are not a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery.
You also need to abstain from contact lenses at least 6 weeks prior to the surgery.
On the day of the surgery:
Following the surgery:
It will take 6-7 months for the eyes to heal completely.
Note: Epi LASIK requires a slightly longer period of recovery than LASIK.
Cost of Epi LASIK surgery can vary depending upon the city/locality, clinic/hospital type & amenities, experience of the provider, the technology used, type of correction required, and refractory status of eye/s etc. Typically, the cost of Epi LASIK surgery in India may range from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 75,000.
Please consult your doctor to get the exact treatment plan and price quote suiting your unique needs.
The effects of Epi LASIK are permanent. However, Epi LASIK cannot prevent the natural deterioration of eyesight that happens with age.
People interested in this topic also read:
1. Katsanevaki V, Kalyvianaki M, Kavroulaki D, Pallikaris I. One-Year Clinical Results after Epi-LASIK for Myopia [Internet]. 2018 [cited 6 April 2018]. Available from: http://www.aaojournal.org/article/s0161-6420(06)01323-6/abstract
2. Torres L, Sancho C, Tan B, Padilla K, Schanzlin D, Chayet A. Early Postoperative Pain Following Epi-LASIK and Photorefractive Keratectomy: A Prospective, Comparative, Bilateral Study [Internet]. Healio.com. 2018 [cited 6 April 2018]. Available from: https://www.healio.com/ophthalmology/journals/jrs/2007-2-23-2/%7B806690bc-b99d-4822-ad70-195cb623f33d%7D/early-postoperative-pain-following-epi-lasik-and-photorefractive-keratectomy-a-prospective-comparative-bilateral-study
3. Yuksel N, Bilgihan K, Hondur A, Yildiz B, Yuksel E. Long term results of Epi-LASIK and LASEK for myopia [Internet]. 2018 [cited 6 April 2018]. Available from: http://www.contactlensjournal.com/article/S1367-0484(13)00275-0/abstract
Recovering Epi-LASIK surgery takes a significantly longer time than LASIK. After a LASIK surgery there is a noticeable improvement in vision 24 hours after the surgery. Vision improvement after an Epi-LASIK surgery is usually noticeable around 7 days after the surgery. Usually you can drive within a week after surgery. Some patients experience the final results possibly three or six months post the surgery.
Epi-LASIK surgery is not meant for everyone. When your doctor suggests you undergo an Epi-LASIK, discuss the reasons and the pros and cons. Epi-LASIK is suggested for people who have thin corneas, with insufficient tissue for a good LASIK flap. It is considered to be a safe option for people whose hobbies or professions make them prone to being hit in the eye (such as sports people, soldiers, police officers etc.) as there is no risk of the flap being dislodged and there is less weakening of the cornea.
Though relatively uncommon, Epi-LASIK sometimes can result in complications such as, over/undercorrection, seeing halos or starbursts around light sources, loss of epithelial flap, visual fluctuation, double vision, and epithelium erosion.
PRK is a type of refractive laser surgery to correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.
Cataract may occur as a result of a past eye surgery such as ICL, or due to aging, genetic disorder, diabetes, exposure to ultraviolet rays or radiation, or eye trauma or any eye injury which changes the tissue of the eye lens.
Rhinoplasty is known as nose job. It is a plastic surgery which helps in reconstructing and correcting the shape of the nose. Reconstructive surgery and Cosmetic surgery are the two types. Nose job helps in improving the appearance of the nose.
The other option being contact lenses
Lasik may leave some residual number
Epilasik or Femto lasik is likely to be error free
ICL is sure not leave any residual error.
Both are equally good
Epilasik is preferred if corneal thickness is less