LASIK vs. LASEK: Which is Better?

Laser eye surgery is a popular way to improve your vision, although not every technique will work for every person. LASIK and LASEK are two distinct methods that may work for different individuals. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. These factors are considered when deciding which approach to choose for a particular individual. 

What are LASIK and LASEK?

LASIK and LASEK are two popular vision correction procedures that are used to improve eyesight and decrease the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. 

LASIK, also known as Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, involves the creation of a thin flap on the cornea. Your eye surgeon lifts this flap and uses a femtosecond laser to reshape the cornea. This benefits individuals with refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Once the flap is placed back in position, it quickly heals back into place, protecting your eye. 

On the other hand, LASEK, or Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy, is a similar procedure that does not require making a flap. Instead, an alcohol solution is used to loosen the thin layer of epithelial cells on the cornea. This layer is moved aside to allow the laser to reshape the cornea. After the surgery, the epithelial cells are placed back onto the cornea, and a soft contact lens is inserted to protect the eye while the corneal surface heals.

LASIK or LASEK: Which is Better?

The decision on which procedure is best for you depends on several factors. These factors include your eye health, corneal thickness, and specific vision prescription. An experienced eye doctor will assess these factors and determine which procedure to recommend for your needs. 

Both LASIK and LASEK have assisted many people in improving their vision. Eye surgeons weigh each method’s advantages and disadvantages carefully before selecting one. Our ultimate goal is to help you achieve your best results, so a full assessment and eye examination are necessary to determine which procedure is recommended for you. 

What is Recovery Like After LASIK or LASEK?

The recovery time for LASIK is relatively quick. Most people experience improved vision within 24 hours and resume normal activities in a day or two. We recommend avoiding swimming, contact sports, or airborne debris for a week after your LASIK procedure. You can resume most other activities within a few days, but continue using your eye drops as instructed. 

LASEK requires a slightly longer recovery time since it does not create a flap. The epithelial cells on the cornea need time to heal and regenerate. You may experience some discomfort during the first few days, which can be managed with medication. Using soft contact lenses during the healing process protects your healing corneal surface. 

Because LASEK regenerates the surface of the cornea instead of using an incision to create a flap, this procedure is safer for those who plan to engage in contact sports or similar activities in the future. LASEK also has less risk of disrupting the corneal surface and causing dry eye. 

Is LASIK or LASEK Right for Me?

Generally, LASIK is suitable for individuals with good corneal health and thickness. You should also have a certain level of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and a reasonably stable prescription. However, LASIK may not be recommended for those with certain eye conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women may be advised to postpone LASIK surgery.

LASEK may be better for those with thin corneas or corneal irregularities that make LASIK unsuitable. It is also suitable for those who engage in contact sports or have a higher risk of eye trauma. However, individuals with severe nearsightedness or thin epithelial cells may not be good candidates for LASEK.

Consulting an experienced eye surgeon is the best way to determine which procedure is right for you. They will evaluate your individual circumstances, consider factors such as your eye health and any underlying conditions, and guide you toward the most appropriate option. Remember that the ultimate goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your vision, and choosing the right procedure is crucial.

Take the Next Step

You’ll benefit not only from the latest technologies available but also from our compassionate, personal approach. You’re more than a patient at Vold Vision in Bentonville and Fayetteville. We strive to make you as comfortable as possible while evaluating the optimal treatment plan just for you. We invite Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, and Springdale residents to contact us today for a consultation at (479) 442-8653.