Epi-LASIK Eye Surgery

Calgary, Alberta

Epi-LASIK is a variant on the LASIK and PRK procedures that uses a laser to correct the refractive error of the eye that causes nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia. At Western Laser Eye Associates, we take pride in giving our patients many different options so they can get the refractive eye surgery that best meets their visual needs. Dr. Anderson Penno and staff will closely evaluate the condition of your eye to determine the refractive eye surgery that is best for you.

Although the details of the procedure are different, Epi-LASIK can produce results as good as LASIK or PRK, so you may achieve better than 20/20 vision following Epi-LASIK. If glasses or contacts have hampered your lifestyle--interfering with your choice of career or your leisure activities--say good bye to them with Epi-LASIK.

How it works

The goal of refractive eye surgery is to reshape the cornea so that it properly focuses light on your retina. If you are nearsighted, your cornea is too steep. If you are farsighted, your cornea is too flat. If you have astigmatism, your cornea has an irregular shape.

In Epi-LASIK, your cornea is reshaped so that it properly focuses light on your retina. LASIK reshapes the center of your cornea, and PRK reshapes the surface of your eye, but Epi-LASIK is something in between.

A speculum is used to hold the eyelids open.

• A delicate instrument called an epithelial separator to separate the very thin "skin" of the eye, called the epithelium, away from the cornea.
• The laser is used to reshape the surface of the cornea, following a precise, computer-controlled plan
• The epithelium is then put back in place and a special contact lens is used to protect the eye until it heals.

Epi-LASIK can be performed using wavefront technology to ensure the most customized results possible.

Is Epi-LASIK right for you?

Epi-LASIK is a good treatment for men and women who are not good LASIK candidates because they have corneas that are too thin. It is also a good procedure for people whose profession puts them at a higher risk for eye impacts.

It is not a good procedure who have severe nearsightedness, since very steep corneas make it difficult to separate the epithelium, who might do better with PRK.

Dr. Anderson Penno has been performing refractive surgeries since 1996 and has performed thousands of procedures. She uses her experience, and today's most advanced technology to give you the best possible care during your vision correction procedure. Please schedule an Epi-LASIK consultation today to learn more about this or other procedures offered to our Calgary, Alberta patients at the Western Laser Eye Associates.