What is Epi-LASIK?

Answer:
Epi-LASIK, which stands for epithelial laser in-situ keratomileusis,

is a form of eye surgery to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism, and combines features of LASIK, PRK, and LASEK eye surgeries.

As with LASEK surgery, Epi-LASIK involves cutting the outer layer of the cornea to create a thin sheet called an epithelial sheet. However, whereas in LASEK surgery alcohol is used to separate the epithelial sheet from the eye, in Epi-LASIK surgery a plastic blade called an epithelial separator is used for this part of the procedure. An excimer laser then re-sculpts the cornea, as in the LASIK and PRK surgeries. The epithelial sheet is then re-positioned and a contact lens “bandage” applied to protect the eye and allow the epithelial cells to grow back properly.


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