by LasikExpert » Tue Apr 05, 2011 6:50 pm
The epithelium is the outermost layer of corneal cells. They are the fastest reproducing cells in the human body, but do require some time to cover the cornea, thicken, and smooth. With PRK, the epithelial cells are removed and new cells have a clear treatment area. With LASEK, the epithelial cells are fatally wounded with an alcohol solution, moved aside, and then moved back over the treatment area. With both PRK and LASEK a contact lens is used as a bandage to protect the cornea while the epithelium heals.
Because PRK removes the epithelium, the new cells just cover the area, thicken, and smooth. A process that provides "functional fuzzy" vision for a few days with vision clarity building over the following weeks. Since LASEK does not remove the epithelium, but these cells are fatally wounded during the LASEK process, the old epithelial cells must die and be flushed away as the new cells are replacing them. The LASEK healing process can present as pretty good vision in the early days, vision that goes downhill after a week or so, and then vision that starts to clear. PRK is climbing straight up a mountain while LASEK is a bit of a roller coaster ride.
What you describe appears to be normal, however be sure that you report your symptoms and changes to your doctor.