LASEK (Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy) is a laser eye surgery procedure used for the correction and improvement of vision conditions such as astigmatism, hyperopia (long-sightedness), and myopia (short-sightedness). It is a surgical procedure intended to reduce a person's dependency on glasses or contact lenses. LASEK, like other vision correction surgeries, such as LASIK, uses a laser to alter the shape of the cornea allowing the person to view images in focus again. LASEK differs from LASIK in how the cornea is accessed initially for the laser treatment to take place. The ideal candidate for LASEK should be over 18, have had stable vision and an optical prescription for at least the last two years. Those with only mild long-sightedness, short-sightedness or astigmatism may not be suitable candidates. LASEK eye surgery is better suited to patients with very thin or steep corneas, as thin flaps make it difficult for the surgeon to create a suitable flap for a LASIK surgical procedure. LASEK eye surgery prices are from approximately £500 to £1,300 per eye.