EpiLASIK is a type of refractive surgery, -which is designed to reduce a person’s dependency on contact lenses and eyesglasses. The technique -was invented by Dr. Ioannis Pallikaris, and it attempts to merge the desirable features of other major refractive surgery techniques, such as PRK, LASIK and LASEK. EpiLASIK is believed to avoid risks associated -with LASIK and offers improved postoperative recovery relative to PRK. In essence, EpiLASIK is described as ‘an advanced type of corneal surface ablation’ employed to correct myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism.

EpiLASIK differs from conventional LASIK. LASIK involves cutting a flap in the cornea -with a microkeratome or laser to reveal the stroma (the middle layer of the cornea). on the other hand, EpiLASIK entails the creation of a thin flap of corneal epithelium. The epithelium is gently separated from the underlying corneal layer -without cutting – quite the same procedure as -what is follo-wed during LASEK. Ho-wever, as opposed to LASEK, EpiLASIK does not make use of any alcohol solution to loosen and remove the surface of the epithelium.

Like LASEK, EpiLASIK is more appropriate for patients -who have thin corneas and is therefore not viable candidates for conventional LASIK. once the epithelial layer is removed, the excimer laser reshapes the cornea in the desired manner so as to correct any refractive anomalies. Upon successful ablation, the epithelial flap is repositioned on the cornea. A thin soft bandage contact lens is then placed over the flap. This must be -worn for several days after the EpiLASIK surgery, in order to minimize discomfort and aid in the healing process.

EpiLASIK holds a significant advantage over conventional LASIK in that it avoids any of the potential flap complications associated -with LASIK. That is, there is no such risk as dislocated flap, folds in flap, epithelial ingro-wth etc. In addition, EpiLASIK allo-ws a more rapid visual recovery relative to PRK and LASEK.

In summary, EpiLASIK is a technologically advanced surgical procedure, -which might be useful if you have a thin cornea or some other visual anomaly that rules out conventional refractive surgery. Ho-wever, it is advised that you acquire the assistance of an expert eyes surgeon instead of hastily jumping on a conclusion.