Excimer Laser in Nairobi | Dr. Abdiaziz Dermatology Clinic

Skin Experts

What Is an Excimer Laser?

An excimer laser is a specialized ultraviolet (UV) laser that produces a cool, high-energy light beam. The term excimer comes from “excited dimer”, a temporary molecule formed when noble gases (like argon or xenon) combine with halogens (such as fluorine or chlorine).

Key characteristic:
It removes or reshapes tissue without burning it, making it extremely precise and safe for delicate medical procedures—especially in eye care and dermatology.

How the Excimer Laser Works

  • Emits UV light (commonly 193 nm wavelength)
  • Breaks molecular bonds on the surface of tissue
  • Removes microscopic layers without heat damage
  • Allows pinpoint accuracy (measured in microns)

Medical Procedures Using an Excimer Laser

 

  1. Eye (Ophthalmology) Procedures
  2. a) LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
  • A corneal flap is created
  • Excimer laser reshapes the cornea
  • Flap is repositioned

Used to correct:

  • Short-sightedness (Myopia)
  • Long-sightedness (Hyperopia)
  • Astigmatism

 

  1. b) PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
  • Outer corneal layer is removed
  • Excimer laser reshapes cornea
  • New epithelial layer grows back

Best for:

  • Thin corneas
  • People not suitable for LASIK
  1. c) LASEK
  • Similar to PRK but preserves the epithelial layer
  • Less discomfort than PRK

 

  1. Dermatology (Skin Treatment)

Excimer Laser Therapy (308 nm)

Used to treat localized skin conditions by targeting affected areas only.

Conditions treated:

  • Psoriasis
  • Vitiligo
  • Eczema
  • Alopecia areata
  • Leukoderma

Benefits:

  • Faster results than traditional UV therapy
  • Minimal exposure to healthy skin
  • Fewer treatment sessions
  1. Cardiology (Less Common)

Laser Angioplasty

  • Used to remove plaque in blocked arteries
  • Excimer laser vaporizes plaque without damaging vessel walls

What Conditions Does the Excimer Laser Cure or Treat?

Effectively Treats / Corrects

Area

Condition

Eyes

Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism

Skin

Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Eczema

Hair

Alopecia Areata

Heart

Certain arterial blockages

⚠️ Note:

  • Eye conditions are permanently corrected, but natural aging (presbyopia) can still occur.
  • Skin conditions are managed, not permanently cured—maintenance may be needed.

Advantages of Excimer Laser Treatment

  • Extremely precise
  • No thermal damage
  • Fast recovery (especially LASIK)
  • Minimally invasive
  • High success rates

Possible Risks & Side Effects

  • Temporary dryness of eyes
  • Light sensitivity
  • Mild discomfort
  • Rare infection or under-correction (eye procedures)
  • Skin redness or pigmentation changes (dermatology)

Who Is a Good Candidate?

  • Adults with stable vision (for eye surgery)
  • Localized skin lesions
  • Patients not responding to medication or topical therapy
  • Medically evaluated and approved by a specialist