LASIK vs. LASEK: What’s The Difference?

When considering LASIK vs LASEK, it’s important to understand the both the similarities and differences between the treatments. Both LASIK and LASEK are laser eye surgery treatments that help to resolve common refractive errors including myopia (short sight), hyperopia (long sight) and astigmatism. LASIK is the most popular form of laser eye surgery, with LASEK being a common alternative, however both options are extremely safe with a very high success rate!

Discover the difference between LASIK and LASEK laser eye surgeries, or give us a call to discuss your own requirements and options regarding vision correction treatment.

What is LASIK laser eye surgery?

LASIK eye surgery is a blade-free treatment that uses an ultra precise laser to change the shape of your cornea and improve your vision. This procedure is quick and painless, lasting for approximately 10-minutes per eye; once treatment is complete you can expect rapid results within the first few days of treatment.

Research indicates that 92-98% of patients achieve their desired vision after LASIK laser eye surgery. This procedure features end-to-end laser technology and is a blade-free surgery with no stitches required.

What is LASEK laser eye surgery?

LASEK eye surgery is similar to LASIK, however LASEK does not create a flap during surgery, meaning it is better suited for patients with dry eyes, thin corneas, or for those who participate in contact sports.

Similar to LASIK, this treatment is quick and painless, also using a specialist laser to precisely target the cornea and improve your vision. The procedure is comfortable with minimal touch and no stitches, and results can be expected within the first few days post-treatment.

What is the difference between LASIK and LASEK laser eye surgery?

These procedures are very similar, however they do differ in the way they are performed. LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin flap on the surface of the cornea, which is then gently lifted so an excimer laser can be used to reshape the cornea. No stitches are required for LASIK; the flap will naturally heal, and improvements to your vision will be noticeable within the first few days of treatment.

In contrast, LASEK eye surgery does not create a thin flap on the surface of the cornea, instead an alcohol solution is used to gently separate the cells from the surface of the cornea. These cells are then rolled aside and an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. After the laser procedure is complete, the surface cells are replaced and aligned back into their original position. A contact lens is then placed on the surface of the eye to act as a bandage, with no stitches required. LASEK results can be expected within the first few days of treatment.

It is important to note that LASIK typically has faster results, the healing time is a little longer with LASEK.

LASIK vs LASEK: Which eye surgery is best for me?

When considering LASIK vs LASEK, it’s crucial that you meet with a specialist for a full consultation. During a consultation we will discuss your medical background, identify your goals and issues regarding your vision, and identify which laser treatment is the right choice for your own personal needs.

Find your nearest LaserVision location and book a free consultation with our eye health specialists for more information on whether you’re the right candidate for LASIK or LASEK.