Epi-LASIK

Epi-LASIK – LASIK Alternative Offered in Our Las Vegas Offices

Epi-LASIK (also known as epilasik, epi surgery, e lasik, or epi lasek) is an alternative to LASIK eye surgery we perform that combines the techniques of both LASIK and LASEK surgery to improve a patient’s visual acuity.

Epi-LASIK eye surgery is a refractive surgery aimed at minimizing the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. It is an acronym that stands for Epithelial Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis. Developed by Ioannis Pallikaris, the Epi-LASIK procedure applies both LASIK and LASEK techniques to draw on their respective strengths.

LASIK uses a laser or a sharp surgical blade to cut the flap. However, great precision is needed to cut the optimal thickness without cutting a thick flap, which can impact the healing time of the flap. LASEK involves the use of fine blades to cut the epithelial sheet as thinly as possible, retaining the flap’s hinge. An ophthalmologist loosens the flap with alcohol, which may lead to some adverse reactions.

How Epi-LASIK Eye Surgery Works

Although Epi-LASIK applies this latter method, ophthalmologists use an oscillating blunt plastic blade called an epi-keratome. Instead of alcohol, the eye doctor uses an epithelial separator like the Amoils “Soft Brush” Polisher to separate the epithelial cells gently.

The epithelial flap is lifted and folded to allow ophthalmologists to work on the corneal stroma, which they reshape using an excimer laser for corneal reshaping and myopia correction. They then put the epithelial sheet back in position and place a bandage contact lens to keep it in place as the eye heals and the epithelial cells re-epithelialize.

Although patients may experience some discomfort and dry eyes after surgery, they can use over-the-counter painkillers. The discomfort is relatively less than other procedures, like PRK surgery vs. LASIK. Epi-LASIK offers improved patient comfort compared to no-flap LASIK options.

Ideal Candidates for Epi-Lasik Surgery

Based on corneal measurements, epi-LASIK eye surgery is recommended for patients with mild myopia and those whose corneas are not too steep. If the cornea is too steep, creating the epithelial flap is challenging without risking stromal incursion.

The procedure is also ideal as a PRK alternative or LASEK alternative for patients who do not have enough tissue for a flap, those with thin corneas, and patients whose professions expose their eyes to the risk of trauma. Compared to LASIK vs. PRK, some patients may choose PRK over lasik if they have these risk factors. However, Epi-LASIK offers another option for laser vision correction without cutting a full LASIK eye flap.

Epi-LASIK avoids potential complications like issues with LASIK flap healing or a dislodged LASIK flap. The lack of alcohol also reduces the risk of corneal haze compared to LASEK. While the visual recovery may not be as fast as the LASIK eye surgery procedure, Epi-LASIK can be an excellent option for the right candidates seeking refractive surgery to reduce their dependence on glasses and contacts.