The procedures for Lasek and Lasik are very similar. The main difference is how the surgeon accesses the eye to perform the corrective procedure. The results of both procedures are generally the same.
With the Lasik procedure the surgeon creates a flap which comprises of the thin outer layer of the cornea. This is lifted away and the surgeon applies the laser to the cornea and then the flap is returned and left to heal.
The Lasek procedure does not require a flap to be created and the surgeon moves the top layer of the cornea and moves it to the side to apply the laser to the outer layer [epithelium], and then replaced and left to heal.
Lasik is prefered as it has a quicker recovery period, whereas patients can experience pain and discomfort with the Lasek procedure. Generally Lasik is a far more comfortable procedure and hence more popular.
Lasek has fewer risks despite the level of discomfort post procedure, as a result of the flap creation in Lasik - this gives rise to the added chance of complication.
For the most part, the decision on what procedure to go for will be defined by your own preference, but your surgeon may dictate to you what procedure to get based on the thickness of your cornea.
The best advice is to make sure that your surgeon has fully consulted with you all the options. There are minimal risks with both procedures, but Lasik tends to be the most popular as the lack of discomfort is what 99% of patients prefer despite the more intrusive procedure.
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