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.
BenefitsFor many Los Angeles patients, flapless LASIK carries a number of appealing benefits, including:
Reduced risk of short- and long-term complicationsExtremely safe and effective way to improve visionSuitable 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.
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.
If you first experience a disaster like dry eye, the fundamental rule and recommendation would be to speak with a skilled ophthalmologist before putting anything in your eyes. Since choosing a treatment requires more pathophysiological understanding than simply purchasing the first eye drops you see.
Pterygium removal is a surgical procedure that removes abnormal tissue growing onto the cornea, often followed by a conjunctival autograft or amniotic membrane graft to support healing and reduce recurrence. This recovery guide explains what to expect after surgery, how to use prescribed ointments and drops, why UV protection is essential, how dry eye management supports healing, and when to contact our office during recovery.
Prokera® Slim is an FDA-cleared biological medical device that uses amniotic membrane to support healing of the ocular surface. This treatment may help reduce inflammation, suppress scarring, and restore damaged eye tissue in conditions such as keratitis, chemical burns, corneal scars, epithelial defects, and severe dry eye. Prokera is placed in the office, worn continuously for several days, and removed by Dr. Benjamin at a follow-up visit.
Valeda Light Delivery System is an advanced treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration, designed to support retinal cells and help preserve visual function. The procedure uses photobiomodulation — low-level light therapy with specific wavelengths — and is performed quickly, without pain, eye drops, injections, or recovery time.
If your vision becomes blurry, hazy, or foggy months or years after cataract surgery, it may be caused by posterior capsule opacification — often called a “secondary cataract.” This is a common and treatable condition, not a return of the original cataract. At Benjamin Eye Institute, Dr. Arthur Benjamin performs YAG laser capsulotomy in the office to quickly and painlessly clear the cloudy capsule behind the lens implant, with no incisions or stitches and clearer vision often restored the same day.
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle. This recovery guide explains what to expect after eyelid surgery, including swelling, bruising, cold compresses, suture removal, activity restrictions, and important instructions to support safe healing and the best possible aesthetic result.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is an in-office laser treatment designed to lower intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. This guide explains how SLT works, what to expect during the procedure, how Dr. Benjamin’s 180° treatment strategy is used, and why SLT may reduce or delay the need for daily glaucoma eye drops.
