LASEK is an eye surgery that aims to correct vision problems by reshaping the cornea using a laser. Before delving into the details of how much LASEK costs, it’s important to note that LASEK and LASIK are very similar medical procedures, with the main difference being the creation or absence of a flap. Additionally, LASEK uses a single laser, while LASIK typically involves two lasers (one to create the flap and another to reshape the cornea). To determine the best option for your condition, it’s crucial to consult with a highly skilled specialist.
Having the best medical provider in Mexico, such as Blue Ribbon, is ideal for eye surgeries or any other surgical procedure. Our country offers numerous advantages in medical tourism compared to other nations. Factors like location, affordable procedure costs, access to certified doctors, and top-notch hospital facilities contribute to these advantages.
This makes Mexico one of the best options for patients from various parts of the world, especially Canada and the United States. With the support of a medical provider, it’s possible to plan a trip to undergo eye surgery in Mexico.
What is laser eye surgery?
Several types of laser procedures are used to treat various vision-related conditions. Laser eye surgery is used when reshaping the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of the eye, is needed.
By reshaping this tissue, it’s possible to reduce or eliminate a refractive error. In this case, the refractive error relates to light not being properly refracted when entering the eye, leading to blurry vision.
Hence, conditions like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are refractive errors. However, there are different types of surgeries, such as LASEK and LASIK, which, despite their differences, are similar as they are basically laser eye surgeries.
LASIK vs LASEK
Vision problems are common ailments affecting people of various ages. However, to correct them, there are laser surgeries such as:
LASEK (Epithelial Laser-Assisted Keratomileusis)
It’s a medical procedure for treating myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. This medical procedure is an advanced variation of PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). For this surgery, the specialist will separate the epithelial flap using an alcohol solution.
Subsequently, they will use an excimer laser to ablate the cornea tissue according to precise calculations established as optimal to correct the refractive error. The visual recovery period can be lengthy; however, the same visual outcome as LASIK is achieved. Knowing how much LASEK costs and how to prepare for the surgery in Mexico is best done with the region’s top medical provider.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis)
It’s an ocular medical intervention that modifies the underlying corneal tissue to direct light into the eye and onto the retina. It’s a highly effective surgery for patients with astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia. What sets this specialized practice apart from other surgeries is the technique.
In this case, surgeons create a flap of the cornea’s outer layer to access the underlying tissue. The flap is repositioned over the treatment area to provide protection and facilitate the healing process, so it has a faster recovery than other surgeries.
The intervention requires precision and advanced computer imaging technology to enable LASIK specialists to create corneal images with greater accuracy and thus guide the procedure.
What to Expect from LASEK Eye Surgery?
Before
The eye surgeon will perform a comprehensive eye examination and a general health check to analyze whether you are a candidate for this type of surgery. If you wear contact lenses, the doctor may advise you to stop using them for a prudent period before taking measurements for laser eye surgery, as contact lenses can alter the cornea’s natural shape.
It’s necessary to have the support of a trusted person after the surgery. Also, you should request time off from work for at least a week, as the eyes require adequate time to recover, and vision can improve satisfactorily.
During
To begin, numbing eye drops are applied. Subsequently, the ophthalmic surgeon makes a circular cut in the corneal epithelium with a fine blade or trephine. This leaves a small area shaped like an arc of the circle uncut, where the epithelial flap that is created remains adhered to the eye.
At this point, a diluted alcohol solution is applied to the eye for about 30 seconds, which helps loosen the edges of the epithelium and allows the doctor to delicately separate the flap of the loose epithelium to one side.
Then, the excimer laser is aimed at the eye to reshape the corneal stroma and correct vision. Once the procedure is finished, the epithelial flap is repositioned on the eye. Next, a special contact lens is placed over the eye, acting as a protective bandage.
This surgery can last approximately 15 minutes per eye. The patient may wake up without pain, but the specialist may still recommend a mild sedative to help relax. When inquiring about how much LASEK costs and the possible risks of the surgery, it’s essential to be informed about the procedure that will be performed and why it’s considered the best option for the condition presented.
After
Returning home after a brief rest period following the surgery is possible. Patients may often experience mild to moderate discomfort during the first few days after LASEK.
It’s important to keep the contact lens on the eye for about four days while the surface epithelial cells can heal and regenerate. The treating doctor may prescribe topical steroids and antibiotics for at least three weeks to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
As mentioned earlier, recovery from this surgery tends to be slower than with LASIK. It’s essential to keep in mind that the experience of pain varies greatly from person to person. Factors such as individual pain tolerance, the required surgical intervention, and the recovery process undoubtedly influence the duration and intensity of pain.
Therefore, it is essential to comply with the postoperative instructions provided by the surgeon and take medications as prescribed to achieve adequate pain control after eye surgery.
Post-operative care for eye surgery
When inquiring about how much LASEK costs and what the surgery entails, it’s important to also ask about the general care guidelines that we can keep in mind for a successful recovery:
Follow the doctor’s instructions
After surgery of this nature, it’s crucial to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations. This may involve applying eye drops, refraining from certain activities, and following instructions to avoid complications.
Manage discomfort
After eye surgery using this technique, some discomfort may arise. Typically, these can be managed with prescribed medications, topical anesthetics, or anti-inflammatory treatments.
Rest
After eye surgery, the eyes must rest adequately. Therefore, consider taking a nap once at home to maintain an appropriate recovery process.
Use protective equipment
A patch or plastic shield may be required after eye surgery. Generally, these can be removed one day after the procedure.
Monitor healing
It’s essential to pay attention to the healing process. Inform the doctor immediately about any unusual symptoms.
Take time off
It’s advisable to take between one and three days off work after surgery of this level to rest and recover properly.
Avoid strenuous activities
It’s necessary to refrain from strenuous activities, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in vigorous exercises, for several weeks to avoid excessive stress on the eyes.
Seek clarification
If you are unsure about any aspect related to eye surgery recovery, you can consult with your healthcare provider.
It’s worth noting that post-operative care may vary depending on the type of operation and each patient’s needs. Following the doctor’s instructions is important to significantly reduce complications and ensure the recovery process can proceed smoothly.
How to increase the success rate of eye surgery?
When it’s necessary to undergo a LASIK procedure, certain aspects can help maximize the chances of success:
- Select a certified ophthalmologist. Ensuring that the specialist performing the medical procedure is adequately prepared professionally is the key to having confidence in the success of the intervention.
- Inform yourself about the details related to the surgery of interest. It’s advisable to feel comfortable with all the information regarding the required surgery. Therefore, asking necessary questions to clarify any doubts is recommended.
- Follow the doctor’s instructions. The surgeon will provide specific instructions before and after the surgery. These instructions must be followed diligently as they significantly impact the final outcome.
Only an ophthalmic surgeon can determine if LASEK is a suitable operation according to the needs presented.
How much is LASEK in Mexico?
As with other surgical procedures or medical interventions, prices can vary. Additional materials or extra time in the operating room may be required. Furthermore, any surgery carries inherent risks, and potential complications can generate additional costs.
In this regard, it is recommended to consult with the specialist to determine the cost according to the required procedure.
Why Choose Eye Surgery in Mexico?
There are several advantages to undergoing eye surgery in Mexico. Among them, some key highlights include:
- Affordable surgical intervention. The accessible cost of various procedures and medical treatments in Mexico is one of the reasons why medical tourism to this country has increased.
- First-rate hospital services. The low cost of laser surgery in Mexico does not imply low-quality intervention. On the contrary, the care provided by highly renowned hospitals meets the highest quality standards. This is evidenced by the incorporation of cutting-edge technology, well-equipped facilities with modern instruments, and certified specialists with extensive experience in ophthalmology.
- No language barriers. It’s possible to receive care from bilingual doctors.
- Competent physicians. Access to highly competent doctors is possible, each with relevant certifications according to their specialty.
- No waiting period. Laser surgery in Mexico can be easily planned with the support of a medical provider such as Blue Ribbon. Even complex surgical interventions can be performed without an extensive waiting period.
How to Plan My Eye Surgery?
At Blue Ribbon, we have over 60 certified doctors with experience in various health areas, including orthopedics, ophthalmology, dental, bariatrics, and many more. We are your best ally as a medical provider. We stand out by offering reasonable prices, bilingual staff, a personal coordinator for each patient, and a wide range of specialized procedures and treatments.
You can save up to 70-80% on ophthalmological medical procedures. We ensure attention with only certified surgeons, hospital service for all budgets, and a single price without hidden charges.
If you’re interested in knowing more about how much LASEK is, you can contact us by phone or by filling out the form available on our website. You can ask any questions to start planning your surgery. A coordinator (doctor) will provide you with information about the procedure you are interested in accessing.
You can call from the USA at 213 995 3029. We are located at Arenas 151, Fraccionamiento Playa Ensenada, CP 22880, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.