What is Superficial Epi-Laser or Advanced Surface Treatment (AST)?
• Advanced Surface Treatment separates the epithelium from the Bowman’s membrane, creating a thin epithelial sheet, which is discarded. This makes possible laser vision correction for more patients, especially those with thin corneas or dry eyes. Uncorrected visual acuity was significantly better with cell removal on postoperative days three to seven as compared to keeping the epithelial cells intact. This is much safer as compared to cutting procedures like Intralase, RK, or even mechanical cutting LASIK. All of our patients prefer this to other procedures. Using the Allegretto Wavelight Laser has given us the highest quality of vision compared to other lasers that we have used. AST has been developed with improved technology, better pharmaceuticals, and increased concern over conventional LASIK complications. Our center has found that the risk for kerectasia has decreased dramatically, especially in patents with no preoperative warning signs. Epithelial ingrowth has been eliminated s
