Epi-LASIK, LASEK, PRK (Advanced Surface Ablation Procedures)

Advanced surface ablation procedures are no-flap, no-incision, surface-based alternatives to refractive surgery treatments like LASIK and ZEISS SMILE® Pro.

Epi-LASIK is one of the most popular forms of advanced surface ablation where the corneal epithelium is removed before the laser is applied to the underlying stroma in order to reshape the corneal surface. There are no incisions made and no flap is being created throughout the procedure. This removes the risk of flap complications that could occur in flap-based procedures.

For patients with myopia, the laser is used to flatten the central corneal surface to allow accurate re-focusing of light entering the eye, and this corrects the refractive errors. For patients with hyperopia, the peripheral corneal surface is flattened instead to achieve good vision.

The eyes generally take about 3 to 5 days to heal after Epi-LASIK surgery. During this time, varying degrees of pain or discomfort is usually experienced. The epithelium will heal on its own but a bandage contact lens is usually used to aid the healing process. Visual recovery takes a few weeks to months before refractive stability is achieved at about 3 to 6 months.

Who is it for?

Typically, Epi-LASIK and other surface ablation procedures are performed on patients whose eyes are not suitable for LASIK or flap-based procedures. Majority of these patients have very thin or steep corneas in relation to the degree of their refractive error. Epi-LASIK and surface ablation techniques are used to help preserve corneal strength and are therefore more suitable for these patients. In addition, patients who have pre-existing cornea surface problems like mild scarring or dry eyes would also benefit from a flapless procedure. Occasionally, it is also recommended for patients who participate regularly in contact or extreme sports such as boxing.

Advantages of Epi-LASIK

  • No flap related complications
  • Cornea tissue saving
  • Preservation of corneal strength
  • Good outcome for lower degrees of myopia and astigmatism

Disadvantages of Epi-LASIK

  • Post-surgical discomfort of 3 to 5 days
  • Longer use of eye medications
  • Longer visual recovery
  • Less predictable outcome for higher degrees of myopia and astigmatism
  • Increased chances of regression
  • Increased risk of corneal haze (cornea scarring)
  • Slightly increased risk of corneal infections during the healing phase

What are the Types of Advanced Surface Ablation Procedures?

Advanced surface ablation techniques include Epi-LASIK, LASEK, and PRK. They differ in the method by which the corneal epithelial cells are removed before the laser procedure. Still, they all achieve equivalent visual acuity results.

Different treatment illustration_18052018_EPI-LASIK

In Epi-LASIK, the corneal epithelium is cleaved off using a blunt automated blade called an epitome.

EPI-LASIK (Epithelial laser in situ keratomileusis)


  1. The eye surgeon places a suction ring on the cornea.
  2. An epithelium separator is used to separate the surface epithelial layer from the underlying corneal tissue. The separator uses ultrasonic vibrations to create a flap.
  3. The suction ring is removed and the thin flap of loosened epithelium is moved to the side.
  4. The excimer laser is programmed to accurately reshape the curvature of your cornea surface and correct the existing refractive power.
  5. The epithelial flap is re-positioned and a soft contact lens is placed on the area, leaving the new epithelial cells to heal naturally.

LASEK (Laser assisted subepithelial keratectomy)


  1. The eye surgeon will gently press a circular bladed tool (a trephine) onto the centre of the eye. Alcohol is applied to loosen the epithelium cells within the trephine.
  2. The thin flap of loosened epithelium is lifted from the underlying corneal tissue and moved to the side.
  3. The excimer laser is programmed to accurately reshape the curvature of your cornea surface and correct the existing refractive power.
  4. The epithelial flap is re-positioned and a soft contact lens is placed on the area, leaving the new epithelial cells to heal naturally.
Different treatment illustration_18052018_LASEK

LASEK is a technique where a dilute alcohol solution is added to loosen the corneal epithelium, which is then gently brushed off and removed.

Different treatment illustration_18052018_PRK

PRK is a surface ablation method where the corneal epithelium is removed manually with a blunt instrument.

PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy)


  1. The eye surgeon will apply numbing eye drops and use a lid speculum to help the eyelid stay open.
  2. The centre of the corneal epithelium is manually removed with a blunt surgical instrument.
  3. The excimer laser is programmed to accurately reshape the curvature of your cornea surface and correct the existing refractive power.
  4. The surgeon will cover the treated area with a bandage contact lens, leaving the new epithelial cells to self-heal and naturally grow back within 4 to 5 days.

Interested in Epi-LASIK, LASEK or PRK?

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    Other Laser Vision Correction Procedures

    Doctor Caring For You

    Dr Daphne Han

    Dr Daphne Han
    Senior Consultant
    MBBS (Melbourne), MMed (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Ophthalmology)

    Subspecialty: Laser Vision Correction and Lens Implant Surgery