Want to Avoid Common LASIK Side-Effects? Try Epi-LASIK
Planning to get LASIK? Be aware that they are some common side-effects, which fortunately, can be avoided with Epi-LASIK...
LASIK is a very common procedure in Singapore these days. But did you know that there are some common LASIK side-effects, ranging from flap problems to infections to dry eyes? Which is why those involved in high-impact activities like sports or the navy are advised not to go for LASIK, but to consider another variant called Epi-LASIK.
Epi-LASIK is a laser procedure that corrects short-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. Epi-LASIK performed by removing the cornea epithelium (skin) using a device called an epi-keratome. This device employs a blunt blade oscillating at a very high frequency to separate the epithelium from the rest of the cornea.
Once the epithelium is separated, the surgeon can either choose to retain the skin or to discard it. If he chooses to retain the skin, the skin will be replaced back to the cornea after the laser shaping of the cornea. However, if the surgeon chooses to discard the skin, a new layer of skin will grow back within 3 to 4 days.
xcimer laser is applied on the exposed cornea (note that the skin is either pushed aside or removed totally) to shape the cornea. For short-sightedness, the laser will sculpt the cornea gradually from the cornea centre to the periphery. For far-sightedness, the laser will sculpt the cornea from the peripheral cornea so as to achieve thicker central cornea and thinner peripheral cornea.
After cornea re-shaping, most surgeons will apply diluted Mitomycin C on the cornea to prior to rinsing the eyes with some salt solution to wash away any debris that may be present. This Mitomycin C is used to prevent cornea haze formation. It prevents certain cells that creates scars from gathering in the cornea.
Once the cornea is rinsed clear of any debris, the surgeon will replace the cornea epithelium (if he chooses to keep the cornea skin). A transparent, low power or zero power, high oxygen permeable contact lens is placed onto the cornea to act as a artificial cornea flap or as a bandage to the cornea. This contact lens will help to lessen the discomfort for the patient and assist in the regeneration of the cornea skin.
Antibiotic drops will be applied onto the eye as a preventive measure against potential eye infections.
Watch this video about How Epi-LASIK Works on YouTube (courtesy of Clearvision, a Singapore LASIK specialist).
About this article
LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusism, is a common eye procedure in Singapore for treating astigmatism, far-sightedness and near-sightedness (Wiki: LASIK). However, unknown to many, there are potential risks and side-effects that are commonly associated with LASIK surgery - most notorious being flap problems. This is why Epi-LASIK, which doesn't require cutting a flap on the cornea, is quickly gaining acceptance despite its slightly higher surgical costs.
