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What Is Laser Subepithelial Keratectomy (LASEK)?

Laser subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) is a surface laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to treat refractive error. The surgeon loosens the thin epithelial layer, folds it back like a flap, and uses an excimer laser to reshape the corneal surface. The epithelium is then repositioned and a bandage contact lens is placed to support healing. LASEK is related to PRK and is often considered when a full LASIK flap is not ideal.

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What Is Laser Subepithelial Keratectomy (LASEK)?

Laser subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) is a surface laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to treat refractive error. The surgeon loosens the thin epithelial layer, folds it back like a flap, and uses an excimer laser to reshape the corneal surface. The epithelium is then repositioned and a bandage contact lens is placed to support healing. LASEK is related to PRK and is often considered when a full LASIK flap is not ideal.

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Who May Be a Candidate

LASEK may be considered for adults with stable prescriptions who are not good candidates for LASIK. It is sometimes chosen for thinner corneas, certain lifestyle or job risks for flap trauma, or when surface ablation is preferred. Your surgeon evaluates corneal thickness, topography, and ocular surface health to confirm suitability. Expectations should include a longer initial recovery than LASIK for many patients.

How LASEK Is Performed

  1. The eye is numbed, and the epithelium is loosened, often using a dilute alcohol solution.
  2. The epithelial layer is moved aside, and the excimer laser reshapes the cornea based on your prescription.
  3. The epithelium is repositioned and a bandage contact lens is placed while the surface heals.

Postoperative drops help reduce inflammation and infection risk while the epithelium regenerates.

Recovery and Vision Timeline

Discomfort, tearing, and light sensitivity are common during the first few days while the epithelium heals. Vision may be blurry or fluctuate early and typically improves over days to weeks as the surface smooths. The bandage contact lens is usually removed after the epithelium has healed. Dry eye symptoms can occur, and follow-up is important to monitor healing and haze risk.

Risks and Alternatives

Risks can include infection, inflammation, undercorrection or overcorrection, glare or halos, and slower visual recovery compared with LASIK. Corneal haze can occur with surface ablation, especially if healing is irregular, which is why surgeons use protective strategies and follow-up. Alternatives include PRK, LASIK, SMILE in selected prescriptions, or continuing with glasses or contact lenses. A preoperative consult helps match the procedure to your cornea and goals.

FAQs on LASEK

How is LASEK different from LASIK?

LASEK is a surface ablation procedure where only the epithelium is lifted and the cornea is reshaped at the surface. LASIK creates a deeper corneal flap and reshapes tissue beneath it, often leading to faster early comfort and vision. Choice depends on corneal thickness, anatomy, and risk factors.

How long does it take to see clearly after LASEK?

Many people see functional vision within days, but sharp vision can take several weeks to stabilize. Healing speed varies by individual and by prescription strength. Your surgeon will schedule follow-ups to track recovery and fine-tune expectations.

Is LASEK safer for thin corneas?

LASEK may be an option for some thin corneas because it avoids a thick LASIK flap. However, thin corneas can still be unsafe for laser surgery if topography or thickness suggests ectasia risk. Only a full preoperative evaluation can determine safety.

Can LASEK correct astigmatism?

Yes. LASEK can correct myopia, hyperopia in selected ranges, and astigmatism, depending on corneal measurements and treatment limits. The treatment plan is customized using your refraction and corneal mapping. Your surgeon will discuss expected accuracy and enhancement options if needed.

References

Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy. EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Laser-Assisted_Subepithelial_Keratectomy. Date Accessed February 9, 2026.

Photorefractive Keratectomy. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf, National Institutes of Health). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549887/. Date Accessed February 9, 2026.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK): Surgery & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24441-photorefractive-keratectomy-prk. Date Accessed February 9, 2026.

Surface Ablation for Myopia: Renewed Interest and Evolving Techniques. PubMed Central (National Library of Medicine). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9364409/. Date Accessed February 9, 2026.

Surface Ablation Laser Surgery: Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis. PubMed Central (National Library of Medicine). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11423634/. Date Accessed February 9, 2026.