Type of Surgery
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Last updated: 11/24/2009
LASEK does not lead to the flap-related complications that occur with LASIK, but there are a number of complications that can occur with LASEK eye surgery. LASEK is well known to cause eye pain for days after the procedure, pain that exceeds...
that of LASIK. During the LASEK procedure, it may be determined that the thin epithelial flap is not strong enough to support LASEK. In this case, the procedure must be converted to a photorefractive keratectomy. The only drawback to this approach is that there are more complications that arise from PRK than from LASEK.
that of LASIK. During the LASEK procedure, it may be determined that the thin epithelial flap is not strong enough to support LASEK. In this case, the procedure must be converted to a photorefractive keratectomy. The only drawback to this approach is that there are more complications that arise from PRK than from LASEK.
In about one percent of patients having LASEK there may be corneal scarring which leads to hazy vision. Since the epithelial layer is disturbed during LASEK, there is some risk of eye infection. The bandage contact lens is thought to be the reason that there are more eye infections associated with LASEK vs. LASIK. However, the soft bandage lens is unavoidable. Dry eyes are a complication of LASEK and LASIK and should be considered before any laser vision correction. Infrequently the eyes may be over or undercorrected or an irregular astigmatism may occur.
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This video shows how vision is dependent on light entering the front of the eye and focusing on the retina at the back of the eye. When this focus cannot be accomplished by the eye muscles or lens of the eye, it results in nearsightedness or farsightedness. Sometimes changes in the cornea can correct these errors of refraction.
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Surgeons aim for results of 20/20 or better so that you can perform most daily activities without your glasses. However, there is a possibility that after surgery, you may need to wear reading glasses or corrective lenses for at least some activities.
-Eye Surgery Education Council
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