Commentary - Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology (2024) Volume 8, Issue 4

Laser-Assisted Sub Epithelial Keratectomy (LASEK) and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) eye surgeries.

James Eloise^*

Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland

Corresponding Author:

Dr. James Eloise
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oulu, Oulu,
Finland,
E-mail: jameseloise@gmail.fn

Received: 24-Jun-2024, Manuscript No. AACOVS-24-128250; Editor assigned: 27-Jun-2024, PreQC No. AACOVS-24-128250 (PQ); Reviewed: 11-Jul-2024, QC No. AACOVS-24-128250; Revised: 18-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. AACOVS-24-128250 (R); Published: 25-Jul-2024, DOI: 10.35841/aacovs.8.4.470

Citation: Eloise J. Laser-Assisted Sub Epithelial Keratectomy (LASEK) and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) eye surgeries. J Clin Ophthalmol 2024;8(4):470.

Description

In the quest for clear vision, advancements in medical technology have brought forth various procedures to correct refractive errors such as near-sightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Two popular options are LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub epithelial Keratectomy) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) eye surgeries. Both are effective alternatives to traditional LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), offering solutions to individuals seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses.

LASEK and PRK are refractive surgeries that utilize laser technology to reshape the cornea, thereby improving vision. While LASIK involves creating a corneal flap to access the underlying tissue, LASEK and PRK differ in their approach. In LASEK surgery, the surgeon first applies an alcohol solution to loosen the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Once the epithelium is gently lifted, a laser is used to reshape the cornea's curvature according to the patient's prescription. After the cornea is reshaped, the epithelial flap is repositioned and a protective contact lens is placed on the eye to aid in the healing process. PRK, on the other hand, involves removing the entire epithelial layer of the cornea before reshaping it with a laser. Unlike LASEK, no flap is created in PRK surgery. Instead, the epithelium is gently brushed aside or removed using a diluted alcohol solution. The laser then sculpts the cornea to correct the refractive error. After the procedure, a bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to protect it as the epithelium regenerates.

LASEK and PRK are suitable for individuals with thin or irregular corneas, which may not be ideal candidates for LASIK. Additionally, these procedures are suitable for people with certain corneal conditions such as keratoconus. Safety, since LASEK and PRK do not involve creating a corneal flap, there is a reduced risk of complications related to flap creation or displacement, which can occur in LASIK surgery. Recovery Time, while the initial recovery period for LASEK/PRK may be slightly longer compared to LASIK, the overall healing process is similar. Many patients achieve excellent vision within a few days to weeks after surgery. No Risk of Flaprelated complications, as there is no corneal flap created in PRK/LASEK, there is no risk of flap-related complications such as flap dislocation, flap wrinkling, or epithelial ingrowth, which can occur in LASIK. Compared to LASIK, the recovery period for LASEK/PRK may be longer, with some patients experiencing discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision during the initial days or weeks post-surgery. After LASEK/ PRK surgery, patients may experience discomfort or a gritty sensation in the eyes as the epithelium heals. This discomfort typically subsides as the eyes heal. PRK, in particular, carries a risk of developing corneal haze during the healing process. Corneal haze can cause visual disturbances but usually resolves with time and appropriate management.

While LASEK/PRK surgeries aim to correct refractive errors accurately, there is a slight possibility of under or overcorrection, necessitating enhancement procedures in some cases. LASEK and PRK eye surgeries offer effective alternatives to LASIK for individuals seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses. While they may involve a slightly longer recovery period and pose some risks, many patients achieve excellent visual outcomes and improved quality of life through these procedures. As with any surgical intervention, thorough consultation with an experienced eye surgeon is crucial to determine candidacy and understand the potential benefits and risks associated with LASEK/PRK surgery. With advancements in technology and surgical techniques, these procedures continue to evolve, providing safe and reliable options for vision correction.