Epi-Clear

Epi-Clear

Epi-Clear, which is also called Epi-Bowman Keratectomy (EBK) is an eye surgery that removes the corneal epithelium before a laser procedure like LASIK. EPK is performed before laser surgery to achieve safer, more accurate outcomes of LASIK.

EBK surgery is generally performed using the Epi Clear™ device, which is a special microkeratome. Epi Clear is a single-use polymer epikeratome designed to remove the surface of the corneal epithelium precisely. The Epi-Clear device is patented and designed with a single-use handle and tip, intended for use on one eye only. It safely collects discarded epithelial cells with its bowl-shaped end. The edge of its blade creates a micro elevates an epithelial fold, while the other blade gently peels the epithelium and completely removes it from the site without damaging Bowman’s layer. The Epiclear surgery helps create clear borders that boost epithelium periphery growth, hastening the healing process, reducing discomfort recovery and time.
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Benefits of Epi-Clear
‍EBK is a minimally invasive procedure than the other processes available in the industry. No metal blades or lasers are used here to create the flap, thus preserving the Bowman layer. Minimum complications and side-effects have been reported with EBK as no chance of permanently weakened cornea.
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Indications For Use
‍The Epi-Clear single-use device is sold sterile and is intended for use in ophthalmic surgery. It is used for de-epithelization of the cornea to prepare the eye before laser surgical procedures.
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EBK Procedure
‍During an EpiClear surgery, your surgeon performs various procedures to prepare the cornea. This ensures safe, effective, and accurate laser treatment.Various tests will be performed to evaluate if the patient is healthy and suitable for an EBK laser correction. You will be administered anesthetic eye drops to numb your eyes before the procedure. The surgeon uses an excimer laser to reshape the corneal curvature using the appropriate refraction. After the cornea has been sculpted and desired parameters have been reached, a protective contact lens is placed on the eye to cover the area and prevent infections.

You may need to wear the contact lens 24 hours a day for several days after the procedure. Some special eye drops will be required to help the eye heal faster. There may be a slight blurriness in vision during the healing period, but the vision generally clears after the healing process concludes.