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Epi-LASIK for St. Petersburg, & Clearwater, FL
LASIK surgery has improved the eyesight of patients across the Tampa Bay area for nearly three decades. One of the original laser-based vision corrections, LASIK has a high rate of success. With technological advancements, however, there is another approach to restoring normal vision that can be a better alternative for some people. It’s called epi-LASIK, and the doctors at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute in Largo, Florida, often recommend it to patients who are not good candidates for LASIK.
How Is Epi-LASIK Different?
Similar to LASIK surgery, epi-LASIK fixes refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. In both procedures, a surgeon must create a flap on the cornea, but in epi-LASIK, the flap is thinner. Because epi-LASIK is a less invasive procedure, it results in a shorter healing time and less post-operative pain.
Why Choose Epi-LASIK?
Epi-LASIK results in greater stability of the cornea’s surface. That’s why it’s a smart option for patients in professions or hobbies that put them at risk of receiving blows to the eye—athletes and law enforcement personnel, for example. People who have thin corneas with insufficient tissue for a good LASIK flap may also be good candidates for epi-LASIK surgery. To determine if this outpatient procedure is right for you, your doctor will need to examine your eyes and measure the thickness of your corneas.
What Is Epi-LASIK Recovery Like?
If you have epi-LASIK, you will likely experience mild discomfort and blurred vision after the procedure. But most patients can resume normal activities within a few days. Keep in mind, though, that you will need to wear a covering over your eye for a few days after surgery. Your doctor will normally remove this covering during your follow-up visit.
Epi-LASIK FAQs
What vision issues can be addressed with Epi-LASIK surgery?
Epi-LASIK surgery is designed to correct refractive errors in the eye, improving vision and potentially freeing patients from the need for glasses or contact lenses. This advanced procedure can effectively address myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, Epi-LASIK helps focus light directly onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision. The ophthalmologists at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute assess your specific condition to determine the best approach for your vision correction needs.
Who is the ideal candidate for Epi-LASIK eye surgery?
The ideal candidate for Epi-LASIK eye surgery is someone with stable vision prescriptions who has not experienced significant changes in their prescription for at least a year. Candidates should be in good general health, with no eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, or corneal diseases. Additionally, candidates should not be pregnant or nursing, as these conditions can affect the stability of your vision. All candidates are assessed on an individual basis to determine if Epi-LASIK is the best option for your vision correction.
What can I expect during the Epi-LASIK procedure?
The Epi-LASIK procedure at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute is designed to be as comfortable and efficient as possible. Before the surgery, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye, ensuring you feel no pain. The procedure involves gently separating the thin outer layer of the cornea and then reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with a laser. The entire process typically takes under half an hour for both eyes. Our expert surgeons and supportive staff will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your comfort and safety.
What age restrictions are there for Epi-LASIK?
Epi-LASIK surgery is typically recommended for patients who are at least 18 years old, as the vision tends to stabilize around this age. However, it’s crucial that a patient’s prescription has been stable for at least 12 months prior to the procedure. There’s no strict upper age limit for Epi-LASIK, but older patients might require a comprehensive evaluation to assess their eligibility, especially considering factors like presbyopia, eye health, and the presence of cataracts.
Is Epi-LASIK a one-time procedure, or are follow-up treatments needed over time?
Epi-LASIK is designed to be a permanent solution for correcting vision. Most patients experience significant improvements in their vision after a single procedure. However, it’s important to note that eyes can change with age, and some patients might require enhancement procedures to maintain optimal vision.
Is Epi-LASIK eye surgery covered by insurance?
Epi-LASIK eye surgery is generally considered an elective procedure by most insurance companies, meaning it is not typically covered under standard health or vision insurance plans. However, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage or discounts for vision correction surgeries. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for the most accurate information regarding your coverage. St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute offers financing options through CareCredit, a leading medical lender, to help patients manage the cost of the procedure.
Epi-LASIK At St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute
As one of the most respected eye-care clinics in the Tampa Bay area, St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute is committed to giving patients the best individualized treatment for their eye-care needs. Our state-of-the-art facility in Largo is equipped with technologically advanced equipment to treat a wide range of vision problems. If you’re tired of wearing glasses or contacts and would like more details about epi-LASIK surgery, contact us today.
