Preventing Epithelial Ingrowth after LASIK

A new technique may better prevent the recurrence of epithelial ingrowth after LASIK. Following the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting this month, Dr. John A. Hovanesian presented a slightly different surgical technique to remove ingrowth and prevent it from recurring.

In a study of 38 patients with ingrowth, almost 80 percent had no recurrence when Dr. Hovanesian’s technique was used. His procedure is highly similar to standard removal of ingrowth with a few altered and added steps.

Epithelial ingrowth is one of the more common LASIK complications. Ingrowth occurs when cells regenerate along and under the edge of the corneal flap. When ingrowth does occur, your eye doctor may simply monitor the condition. Some cases of ingrowth are not severe and do not significantly affect vision. In more severe cases, the epithelial ingrowth affects vision and must be removed.

Serious cases of ingrowth can lead to:

· Feeling like there is a foreign body in your eye

· Ghosting

· Halos

· Loss of LASIK results

· Pain

· Irritation

· Aggravation of dry eye

If you are experiencing a LASIK complication or would like to learn more about LASIK, please find an experienced eye doctor in your area.