Flapless LASIK is a term used for any laser vision correction procedure that does not involve the creation of a corneal flap. The flap has been found to be the root cause of most LASIK-related complications, so removing it increases the safety of the procedure and eliminates many risks. This procedure is also commonly known as PRK.
BENEFITS
For many Los Angeles patients, flapless LASIK carries a number of appealing benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of short- and long-term complications
- Extremely safe and effective way to improve vision
- Suitable option for patients with thin corneas
With that said, there are some drawbacks. For example, flapless LASIK is associated with a longer recovery period and increased temporary post-operative discomfort when compared to the traditional approach.
When this procedure was designed, it was the first alternative to traditional LASIK surgery. It involves using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea, ensuring light can enter the eye properly and project clear images onto the retina. Instead of creating a flap, your surgeon will remove a small portion of the surface epithelium to access and reshape the surface of your cornea. After the procedure, he will apply a bandage contact lens to be worn for about a week as the surface of your eye heals.
PRK is ideal for treating many cases of nearsightedness and can be appropriate for some patients that are not candidates for LASIK in Los Angeles. However, the recovery time is longer. Most patients experience mild discomfort for about three days, along with blurry vision and dry eyes for the first few weeks. In addition, it can take up to three months to notice an improvement in your vision and six months for your vision to completely stabilize, while LASIK delivers results in less than a month.
This approach is ideal to treat astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness and can be appropriate for patients that are not candidates for LASIK. The only drawback is that PRK recovery is slightly longer. It could take a couple of weeks before your eyesight improves, and as many as six months until your vision is completely stable.
This procedure is also known as Epi-LASIK. To begin, your surgeon will separate the epithelium from the rest of the cornea using an instrument called an epikeratome. Technically, he is still creating a flap – just a much thinner one when compared to the traditional LASIK approach. He will then reshape the surface of your cornea to improve your vision, before replacing the epithelium and covering your eye with a protective lens that should be worn for about one week as you heal.
In terms of recovery, you can expect a longer process than LASIK. Your final vision can take up to six months to emerge, and you will need to wait about a week before driving. During this initial healing process, some pain is to be expected, and you will be provided with prescription medication to help you manage the discomfort.
IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN CORRECTING YOUR VISION WITH FLAPLESS LASIK PRK, WE INVITE YOU TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION AT OUR OFFICE TODAY.
During your appointment, we will examine your eyes to determine if you’re a candidate for the procedure, before discussing the risks and benefits of all your options to help you determine which one is in your best interest.
You may put your vision in the best hands by asking the proper questions of a potential LASIK physician using this No-Regrets Guide. We've included our own responses to these inquiries to prevent you from having to conduct an interview. But if you need more explanation or have other worries, let us know! We are at your service.
The story of one unlighted Olympic star was worth the price of the Lasik operation.
Don't put off life until tomorrow, Schedule your consultation with Benjamin Eye Institute today. Make your first step to life without restrictions!
Are you considering LASIK but want to know more before taking the leap? At Benjamin Eye Institute, we combine over 30 years of expertise with state-of-the-art technology to help our patients achieve clearer vision and greater freedom from glasses and contact lenses.
The main difference between PRK and LASIK is in the procedure process. When performing PRK, there is no need to create a flap of the cornea, so this surgical technique may be a good option for those that have thin corneas and might not be a good candidate for LASIK. Also, PRK has a longer recovery process.
Imagine the freedom of crisp, clear vision without the burden of glasses or contacts. LASIK has the potential to transform your life, and at Benjamin Eye Institute, we have witnessed its remarkable impact on countless patients. Join us on a journey of discovery as we unveil the inspiring stories of individuals whose lives were changed by LASIK.
Choosing a LASIK surgeon is not an easy task. You only have one pair of eyes after all. At Benjamin Eye Institute, we pride ourselves on offering the state-of-the-art technology and exceptional surgical skills of Dr. Benjamin. Read more to see what makes our practice stand out!
For patients with moderate to high myopia, a new standard of precision, safety, and reversibility is now available right here in West Hollywood.
Author: Arthur Benjamin, MD
If you've ever been told that LASIK, PRK, or other forms of laser vision correction aren't suitable for you, you're not alone. Many individuals with high prescriptions, thin corneas, or chronic dry eyes have faced the same setback. But, it doesn't mean the end of the road for achieving clear vision without glasses or contacts.
