Laser therapy, for many different procedures has been around for many years and it is still a frightening thought to imagine your eyes being operated on.  Today there are two fairly easy procedures available to restore your 20/20 vision. Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (Lasik) and Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratomileusis (Lasek) are currently the two most advanced technologies available when it comes to eye care. Making sure which one is best for you will require a visit to your eye doctor or surgeon and only then an informed decision should be made.

Both types of surgery are done by laser treatment and involves certain processes done on the cornea of the eye. Both procedures are done in a short time and there is no need to stay overnight. They are both treatments for nearsightedness (faulty refractive ability of the eye), farsightedness (structural defects in the eye causing blurry vision), prebyopia (loss of elasticity) and astigmatism (irregular conformation of the cornea).  

Although the symptoms are the same, treatment differs when it comes to Lasik and Lasek procedures, the major differences being the thickness of the flap that is loosened during the operation. During Lasik, the corneal stroma tissue is included in the cutting of the flap where during Lasek, only the epithelial tissue is involved. In Lasek a thickness of only 50 microns are cut into, leaving the stroma in tact.  A finer blade is used and while a special laser is used in treating the affected area, the epithelium is lifted with an alcohol solution and moved to the side, giving the surgeon access to the effected area.  During Lasik, a special microkeratome knife is used together with the laser to cut a thickness of between 100 and 180 microns to create a flap. An alcohol solutions is also used in Lasik to help lift the epithelium.

Lasik seems to be the more popular one of the two as it takes less time for the eye to heal than with Lasek treatment. Driving is allowed after 1-3 days after surgery where driving is only allowed after a week with Lasek. Recovery time is 4-7 days compared to 2-7 days with Lasik.

Lasik is more better suited for people with less corneal tissue and it is said to be less of a discomfort than Lasek. Chances of corneal haze is rare and vision is immediately clear. With Lasek chances of dry eyes are less and more corneal tissue is preserved.

The correct procedure for you will be discussed and recommended by your eye doctor. Whichever one is right for your condition, chances are more than 95% for a positive outcome and better vision.