What is the difference between Lasik, Epi-Lasik and IntraLasik?
If you orient yourself to laser eye surgery, you are likely to come across terms such as Lasik, Epi-Lasik and IntraLasik. What these eye laser treatments have in common is that they all use the “flap method. The difference between these eye laser treatments is in the way this flap is created. In this blog, we explain what this flap method entails, how the technique has evolved and what the characteristics are for each method. We also discuss why IntraLASIK is the best eye laser method of these three.
What is the flap method?
In laser eye surgery, the flap method involves loosening a thin layer on the outside of the cornea, the so-called ‘flap’, and temporarily folding it aside. This allows the laser to perform the correction directly in the underlying part of the cornea, the stroma. After the correction, the flap is replaced and then grows back together without stitches.
The development of Lasik
The first experiments with laser eye treatments began in the 1960s and 1970s. In the 1980s, the Lasik technique was developed and has been used worldwide since the 1990s. Thanks to Lasik, you can correct your vision with a laser without removing the entire superficial layer of your cornea. A major advantage of this is that recovery is faster. Since the worldwide use of classic Lasik, more refined techniques have emerged, such as Epi-lasik and Intralasik.
What are the differences between Lasik, Epi-Lasik and IntraLasik?
Although all three laser eye treatments use the flap method, the difference lies in the way this flap is created. This affects the accuracy, safety and recovery process after the treatment.
Lasik – the classic method
In Lasik, the flap is created with a mechanical microkeratome, a small surgical blade that can be compared to a cheese slicer. It cuts a thin layer of the cornea. This was the standard method for many years and offers a relatively quick recovery. However, because the flap is cut manually, a small variation in thickness and shape can occur. This increases the risk of complications, such as an irregular flap or problems with replacing it.
Epi-Lasik – without deep flap
Epi-LASIK is a variation of Lasik in which an even thinner layer in the cornea, compared to Lasik, is loosened. This method uses an epikeratome, an instrument that can also be compared to a cheese slicer, but smaller. It makes the treatment more superficial because a less deep flap is created. This makes Epi-LASIK a suitable option for people with a thin cornea or an increased risk of flap complications. The disadvantage is that recovery takes longer and can be accompanied by more discomfort than with Lasik.
IntraLasik – the most advanced option
Intralasik is the most modern technique of these three. Instead of a blade, the flap is made with a femtosecond laser. This ensures a very precise and even flap, which significantly reduces the risk of complications compared to other techniques. In addition, the flap fits better after the procedure, which benefits stability and recovery. Thanks to this precision, IntraLasik is the best eye laser method of these three, which is why we offer it at FYEO.
Which laser eye treatment is right for you?
In addition to IntraLasik, FYEO offers more eye laser treatments. Which method suits you best depends on factors such as your corneal thickness, refractive error and lifestyle. During the consultation with the ophthalmologist during your preliminary examination, it will be determined which treatment is most suitable.
Want to know if you are suitable for laser eye surgery? Schedule a free, no-obligation preliminary examination .
