Which Laser Vision Correction Procedure Is Right for You?

Both Epi-LASIK and LASIK are procedures for corrective eye surgery. The Epi-Lasik procedure was developed in response to certain complications resulting from the PRK and LASIK techniques. The good news, as you consider which procedure is best for you, is that there are options. Your LASIK surgeon will work with you to determine the best procedure for your needs.

Understanding the differences between the procedures can help you as you discuss your corrective surgery options with your surgeon:

• LASIK – Laser vision correction is made to the underlying layer of the cornea after a hinged flap has been created. No stitches are required since the flap seals itself naturally following the procedure. Recovery time seems fairly quick and you should see almost immediate improvement in your vision. However, healing continues and should not be considered complete for several months after your procedure.
  
• PRK – Laser vision correction is made on the surface of the eye. A thin outer layer of the eye is completely removed but will grow back naturally over time. Initial recovery time is longer than with LASIK and may take several weeks before you get the clear vision you desire.
  
• Epi-LASIK – Laser vision correction is also made to the underlying layer of the cornea but the hinged flap is much thinner. Following the procedure, contacts are worn to protect the eye during the healing process. Initial results will be evident quicker than with PRK, but like other refractive procedures will actually be complete in several months.
  

Each type of laser vision correction is designed for specific reasons. For example, if you have thin corneas, or work in a job where your eye may be hit or bumped, Epi-LASIK might be best for you. Being an informed consumer is an essential ingredient to receive the outcome you're looking for from your corrective eye surgery.

Please contact the LASIK Directory today to find an experienced LASIK surgeon in your area.

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LASIK Alternatives

While LASIK is the most popular type of vision correction surgery, it is not the ideal procedure for everyone. Depending on your refractive error, overall eye health and unique corneal condition, you may be a more suitable candidate for one of the LASIK alternative procedures.

At your initial consultation, your laser eye surgeon will evaluate the condition of your eyes and recommend the appropriate procedure to meet your needs. Some of the most common alternatives to LASIK include:

• Conductive Keratoplasty (CK) – this procedure employs radio waves to correct refractive errors associated with hyperopia and presbyopia
  
• Implantable contact lenses – used to correct myopia by inserting an intraocular lens (IOL) in front of your eye's natural lens
  
• LASEK – a common alternative used when your corneal shape or thickness rules you out as a LASIK candidate
  
• Epi-LASIK – corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism for patients with very thin corneas, large pupils, or dry eyes
  
• Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) – like LASIK, PRK uses an excimer laser to reshape your cornea; however, there is no corneal flap created during the PRK procedure
  

By opting for the appropriate procedure for your unique needs, you will minimize the risk of complications and increase your chances of receiving the best possible outcome.

LASIK vs. Epi-LASIK

Advances in refractive surgery technology have resulted in a variety of options to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Two of the most common options available today are LASIK and Epi-LASIK. It is important to understand some of the differences in these procedures so that you choose the right one for your unique vision correction needs.

LASIK and Epi-LASIK are very similar procedures. Both use an excimer laser to reshape your cornea so that light focuses properly on your retina. However, there is a difference in the way each of these procedures access the underlying layers of corneal tissue. In Epi-LASIK, only the epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea) is separated from the underlying corneal tissue. In LASIK, a thicker corneal flap is required to access the deeper layers of the cornea.

These varying techniques have several important implications for patients:

• LASIK generally results in a quicker recovery time; however, there is also a higher rate of flap complications
  
• Epi-LASIK will have a longer recovery time which requires special bandage contact lenses to be worn to promote proper healing; in general, it may take as long as six months to notice the full results of the procedure
  

The thickness of your cornea will generally determine whether you are a better candidate for LASIK or Epi-LASIK. In general, people with thin corneas may experience better results with Epi-LASIK. At your initial consultation, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes to determine the ideal procedure for you.

Please contact the LASIK Directory today to find an experienced ophthalmologist in your area.

Getting LASIK on a Small Budget

There are thousands of people all across the United States who are choosing not to have LASIK performed because they feel that the procedure is too expensive and they can't afford it. The fact is you can probably have the LASIK eye surgery you've always wanted and fit the cost comfortably into your budget.

No matter what budget you have, the best thing you can do if you are considering LASIK surgery is to schedule an initial consultation with a LASIK doctor. During your initial consultation, your LASIK doctor will review your vision goals and determine if LASIK is right for you.

After working with you, your LASIK doctor can find a LASIK financing option that best fits your needs. Many LASIK doctors offer a variety of financing options so that you can make small, monthly payments for your LASIK procedure over the course of three, six, 12, or even 24 months.

For many people, financing their LASIK procedure allows them to achieve the vision they want without breaking the bank. Not only can you receive financing for LASIK procedures, you can also finance many other refractive procedures such as PRK, LASEK, or Epi-LASIK.

You can use the links at the bottom of this page to find a qualified LASIK surgeon near you.