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FAQs |
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LASEK
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What is LASEK?
LASEK is an abbreviation for Laser Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy. LASEK is a hybrid of FDA approved PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and
FDA approved LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). In this procedure, the surface of the cornea is peeled back, the laser is applied, and the surface layer is then replaced into position.
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Who is a candidate for LASEK?
Patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK
Athletes who may have a possibility for eye trauma
Patients who may have a physically active lifestyle.
Patients with certain corneal diseases
Patients with a certain degree of dry eyes
Patients concerned about a corneal flap
Patients who had previous eye surgery, such as RK or PRK
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What is the difference between LASEK and LASIK and PRK?
LASEK takes the best of both PRK and LASIK. As in PRK, there
is no microkeratome used during the LASEK procedure and the
surface cells are replaced, like LASIK, for quicker visual
recovery. However since only the epithelial cells (the outer
most layer of cornea) are used in making the LASEK flap,
there is no permanent corneal flap.
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Will I need reading glasses after my surgery?
Generally, patients under the age of 40 still read well without the use of glasses following the surgery. Patients over the age of 40 may need reading glasses for small print. Presbyopia is a term that refers to the natural weakening of the muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need reading glasses. LASIK does not correct or prevent presbyopia. Should you fall into this age category, we will be happy to discuss monovision with you at your consultation. This is an option that allows many patients the convenience of near and distance vision without the use of reading glasses.
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When can I return to sporting activities or my physically
active lifestyle?
Once your vision allows, you can resume all activities. You
should however, avoid intense or direct strong sunlight and
dirty or dusty environments for as long as possible after
treatment.
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How soon can I drive after LASEK?
We will require that you have someone drive you home
following your procedure. However, you may drive when you
feel comfortable enough to drive safely, possibly the next
day.
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Do I have to avoid all activities post-operatively?
No. We typically demonstrate to the patients that they can
bend over immediately after surgery, pick up 20-30 pounds,
and shower, provided they don't get water into their
operative eye. We do ask that they wear an eye shield at
bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so they do not
inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up
evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6
weeks, with glasses being prescribed between the 3rd and 6th
week visit.
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Why can't I wear my contact lens wear before my preoperative exam?
Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea similar to how a watchband can make an imprint on your wrist. If you have your eyes examined too soon after removing your contact lenses, several of the eye tests could give inaccurate results and negatively influence your surgical outcome. Discontinue wearing soft contact lenses according to
the doctor's recommendation prior to the preoperative measurements and surgery. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens wearers may require a more protracted amount of time out of lens wear.
Our Doctor will advise you if your corneas have not returned to their natural shape after removing your contact lenses.
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Will I still need glasses or contact lenses?
You may need glasses or other corrective lenses after the
procedure on a temporary or permanent basis.
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What if I had a
previous corneal transplant or radial keratotomy?
Research
has shown that LASEK can be successfully performed after
a corneal transplant or previous radial keratotomy (RK)
refractive surgery. However, the decision depends on
many factors. See us for a
pre-operative consultation and exam to see if you are a
good candidate.
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