Popular LASIK Alternatives in North Carolina
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Whether due to thin corneas, dry eye conditions, or other structural concerns, some patients require alternative vision correction procedures. At Laser Eye Center of Carolina, Dr. Dean Dornic—named one of “15 Leaders in Laser Eye Surgery” by Newsweek and recognized as a LASIK Gold surgeon among the nation’s top 50—offers advanced alternatives including LASEK, PRK, and SBK. With over 15 years of surgical experience and thousands of successful procedures, Dr. Dornic provides personalized solutions to help Raleigh, Durham, and Cary patients achieve clear vision safely and effectively.
What is LASEK?
Laser Assisted Sub Epithelial Keratotomy (LASEK) combines the advantages of LASIK with photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). During LASEK, a dilute alcohol solution creates a very thin corneal flap from the epithelium. This flap is lifted, a laser reshapes the underlying corneal surface, and the flap is replaced. A bandage contact lens holds the flap in position for three to five days. LASEK offers improved comfort and reduced risk of haze compared to PRK, with vision recovery similar to PRK. Dr. Dornic was the first surgeon to perform LASEK in the Raleigh/Durham area, making it an excellent option for patients with thin corneas or those whose ocular anatomy isn’t conducive to traditional LASIK flap creation.
What is PRK?
PRK uses the computer-controlled excimer laser to gently reshape the corneal surface without creating a corneal flap. First performed in the mid-1980s, PRK is recommended for patients with low to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism—especially those with very thin corneas or abnormal epithelium. The laser removes the epithelium, then reshapes the stroma (middle corneal layer) by removing 5 to 10 percent of tissue. Because the epithelium is removed, recovery takes longer than LASIK. Patients wear a bandage contact lens for a few days while tissue regenerates, and Dr. Dornic prescribes eye drops for comfort and infection prevention.
What is SBK?
Sub-Bowman’s keratomileusis (SBK) is a premiere laser vision correction procedure that combines PRK’s safety with LASIK’s quick recovery time. SBK uses two lasers: a femtosecond laser (IntraLase) creates an ultra-thin corneal flap approximately 100 microns thick—much thinner than traditional LASIK flaps (140-160 microns)—and an excimer laser performs vision correction. This less invasive approach leaves the cornea stronger and more structurally sound, resulting in fewer cases of dry eye, reduced light sensitivity, and diminished risk of ectasia and other complications. Most patients can drive the following day, enjoying LASIK-like recovery with enhanced safety.
Why Choose Laser Eye Center of Carolina?
Dr. Dean Dornic was the first Raleigh/Durham specialist to perform bladeless LASIK with IntraLase and the first area ophthalmologist to provide implantable contact lenses. As Founder and Medical Director of Laser Eye Center of Carolina, he brings nationally recognized expertise and a commitment to the highest standards in ophthalmic surgery. Many doctors and healthcare providers have chosen Dr. Dornic for their own vision correction, trusting his experience and skill to deliver exceptional results.
Contact Laser Eye Center of Carolina Today
If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK, discover how LASEK, PRK, or SBK can provide the clear vision you deserve. Contact our laser vision correction specialists to schedule your consultation at our Cary location at (919) 467-9955 or our Smithfield location at (919) 938-2010. Dr. Dornic and our team are here to guide you every step of the way toward a life free of glasses and contacts.
