LASEK Indianapolis, Indiana

Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) is a vision correction procedure known as photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). LASEK, like PRK, does not involve Dr. Whitson creating a corneal flap on the surface of the cornea. Essentially, LASEK is the same procedure as LASIK but no corneal flap is created during the procedure. The excimer laser is used during LASIK to reshape the cornea for better vision. Before the procedure, Dr. Whitson will numb the eye with a local anesthetic. After the eye has been successfully numbed, Dr. Whitson will place a diluted solution on the epithelium, the outer surface of the cornea. Then the excimer laser is used to make the necessary corrections to the cornea. The healing time for LASEK is longer than LASIK because the treatment is performed on the surface of the eye. A contact lens will be placed in your eye to help begin the healing process.

Laser vision correction patients are not always suitable candidates for LASIK. Patients who are not suitable candidates often decide to have LASEK or PRK because they can provide the same quality of results. The most common reason a patient would not be a candidate for LASIK is that their cornea tissue is too thin and LASIK could be detrimental to their vision. After a thorough evaluation of your eyes, Dr. Whitson will make a suggestion as to what laser vision correction procedure will be right for you.