Key Takeaways
- Both LASEK and LASIK effectively correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism with success rates exceeding 90%
- LASIK offers faster recovery (24-48 hours) whilst LASEK takes several days to weeks but may be safer for certain patients
- LASEK preserves more corneal tissue, making it suitable for patients with thin corneas or those in contact sports
- Mr Vincenzo Maurino at Moorfields Eye Hospital has performed over 30,000 operations with exceptional outcomes
- Treatment costs range from £xxx to £xxx for both eyes, including all follow-up care
- Your corneal thickness, lifestyle, and recovery preferences determine the most suitable procedure
- Moorfields offers 24-hour emergency care and two-year enhancement guarantee for complete peace of mind
Understanding your vision correction options
When considering laser eye surgery, you’ll encounter two main procedures: LASEK and LASIK. Both offer freedom from glasses and contact lenses with over 90% of patients achieving 20/20 to 20/40 vision.
Mr Vincenzo Maurino at Moorfields Eye Hospital has performed more than 30,000 operations. His expertise ensures you receive personalised recommendations based on your eye anatomy and lifestyle.
Both procedures treat:
- Short-sightedness (myopia) – difficulty seeing distant objects
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia) – difficulty with close-up tasks
- Astigmatism – blurred vision at all distances
The procedures reshape your cornea to correct how light enters your eye, treating prescriptions from mild to severe.
What is LASIK?
LASIK remains the most popular laser eye surgery globally. The procedure creates a thin corneal flap, then uses a laser to reshape the tissue underneath.
The entire procedure takes 15-20 minutes for both eyes. Most patients see dramatic improvement within 24-48 hours, with 96% achieving target vision within one week.
This rapid recovery makes LASIK ideal for busy professionals who need minimal time off work.
What is LASEK?
LASEK offers an alternative for patients who aren’t suitable for LASIK. Rather than creating a deep flap, it loosens only the ultra-thin outer layer using diluted alcohol.
After reshaping the cornea, this layer naturally repositions and heals. Studies show 85-90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after three months.
Recovery takes longer than LASIK, but preserving corneal structure makes LASEK valuable for those with thin corneas or active lifestyles.
Key differences at a glance
LASIK | LASEK | |
|---|---|---|
Surgery Complexity | Easier, less invasive, quicker recovery | More invasive, longer recovery |
Treatment Length | 10 minutes per eye, a quicker procedure | Around 30 minutes, slightly longer |
Post–Operative Care | Faster recovery, clear vision immediately | Longer recovery, clear vision immediately |
Candidacy | Not suitable for thin corneas | Suitable for thin corneas |
Cost & Insurance | Typically not covered by insurance, costs vary | Same as LASIK, costs vary |
Who benefits from LASEK?
LASEK proves particularly suitable for patients with naturally thin corneas measuring under 500 microns, where LASIK might compromise structural integrity. Athletes involved in contact sports like boxing, rugby, or martial arts often prefer LASEK since there’s no permanent flap that could dislodge from impact. Military personnel and those in physically demanding careers frequently choose this option for the same safety reasons.
Patients with pre-existing dry eye conditions typically experience better outcomes with LASEK, as it causes less disruption to corneal nerves. The procedure also works well for those with high prescriptions above -8.00 dioptres, where preserving corneal tissue becomes especially important. Professional athletes particularly value LASEK’s stability, knowing they can return to their sport without worrying about flap-related complications.
Who benefits from LASIK?
LASIK works best for patients with standard prescriptions and adequate corneal thickness who need to return to their daily routines quickly. Busy professionals who can’t afford extended time off work find LASIK’s rapid recovery particularly appealing, with studies showing 85% return to work within just two days.
Parents with young children often choose LASIK because they need clear vision immediately to care for their families. Office-based workers benefit from the minimal disruption to their schedules, often scheduling surgery on a Thursday or Friday and returning to work by Monday. Those with standard refractive errors and no complicating factors typically achieve excellent results with LASIK’s proven technology.
Comparing benefits and drawbacks
LASIK advantages and considerations
LASIK’s main advantage is the remarkably quick visual recovery, with most patients experiencing significant improvement within 24-48 hours. The procedure involves minimal discomfort that typically resolves within hours, allowing a swift return to normal activities. Patients also require less post-operative medication compared to surface procedures, making the aftercare simpler and more convenient.
However, LASIK does require thicker corneas for safe flap creation and carries a small risk of flap-related complications, though these occur in less than 1% of cases. The procedure isn’t suitable for contact sports due to the potential for flap displacement, and patients often experience more dry eye symptoms initially, though these usually improve over time.
LASEK advantages and considerations
LASEK’s key strength lies in treating patients with thin corneas who aren’t suitable for LASIK. Without creating a flap, there’s no risk of flap-related complications, making it inherently safer for active lifestyles and contact sports. The procedure typically causes less long-term dry eye issues and can successfully treat higher prescriptions than LASIK, offering hope to patients with severe short-sightedness.
The trade-offs include a longer recovery period, typically requiring 4-7 days off work compared to LASIK’s 1-2 days. Patients experience more discomfort during the healing phase, often described as a gritty sensation lasting several days. A bandage contact lens must be worn for protection during initial healing, and the treatment requires more frequent use of medicated eye drops over a longer period.
Common side effects
Both procedures share similar temporary side effects that typically improve as your eyes heal. Dry eyes are the most common complaint, occurring more frequently with LASIK initially but affecting both procedures. Light sensitivity usually lasts 24-48 hours after LASIK, whilst LASEK patients may experience this for up to a week.
Many patients notice halos or starbursts around lights at night, particularly during the first few weeks. Your vision may also fluctuate during the healing period, with some days clearer than others. These variations are completely normal and part of your eyes adjusting to their new shape.
The good news is that most side effects resolve within 3-6 months as your eyes fully heal and adapt.
Treatment costs
Both LASIK and LASEK procedures at Moorfields typically range from £XXXX to £XXXX for both eyes. This comprehensive price covers your entire treatment journey, not just the surgery itself.
Your investment includes all pre-operative assessments to determine your suitability, the surgical procedure using advanced laser technology, and all post-operative medications you’ll need during recovery. You’ll also receive two years of follow-up care to monitor your progress and ensure optimal results. Should you need any enhancement procedures within this period, these are included at no additional cost.
Why choose Mr Maurino at Moorfields
Mr Vincenzo Maurino offers:
- Over 30,000 successful operations
- Director of Cataract Service at Moorfields
- Fellowship training in corneal and refractive surgery
Moorfields Eye Hospital provides:
- World’s oldest and largest eye hospital
- 24-hour emergency care
- 98% patient satisfaction
- Advanced laser technology
Book your consultation
Both LASEK and LASIK offer excellent vision correction when performed by experienced surgeons. Your eye anatomy and lifestyle determine the best choice.
Schedule your consultation to discover which procedure suits you best. With Mr Maurino’s expertise, you can proceed confidently knowing you’re receiving the highest standard of care.
