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Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)

Advanced Surface Ablation, New York

Recently, there has been a lot of excitement about “Advanced Surface Ablation” as the absolutely safest technique in laser vision correction. But what exactly is ASA?

The term “Advanced Surface Ablation” or ASA was created to distinguish the most modern way to correct vision with a laser without cutting any flap into the eye at all, from a much earlier technique called PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy.

Both PRK and ASA avoid all cutting so are safer than LASIK, “bladeless” LASIK, and SMILE, which all require incisions to be created into the cornea, thereby permanently weakening your eye. PRK and ASA accomplish this by lasering the cornea surface itself, avoiding the need for the surgeon to go deeply into your eye. This is why both PRK and ASA are also known as “surface ablations” — because the laser is removing tissue (“ablating”) from the surface of your cornea, thereby avoiding the need to make cuts into your eye.

PRK was the original laser vision correction (LVC) procedure, so it’s been around since 1995. However, it never became popular because it is very painful (usually requiring the surgeon to give the patient narcotics to make it bearable), and the recovery is very long (meaning you don’t see ok for weeks and don’t see perfectly for months). This is because PRK involves using an Amoilis brush to “sandpaper” off your corneal epithelium, or a “hockey stick” metal instrument to scrape off the skin of your eye. Both of these techniques are very traumatic to your eye and kill literally millions of corneal epithelial cells, which release inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, which trigger the inflammatory cascade, leading to pain, prolonged healing, and in many cases, scarring, which may cause permanent visual loss.

ASA is synonymous with “alcohol-assisted PRK” or LASEK. ASA uses a dilute alcohol solution to delaminate, or gently separate the corneal epithelium from the underlying cornea. The skin is removed in an “en bloc” dissection, as one clean sheet, ideally, and placed on the surgical tray, where again millions of epithelial cells die & release cytokines. But who cares? These inflammatory triggers never touch the cornea, so the inflammatory cascade is never triggered. Thus: no pain or prolonged healing or scarring!

Dr. Chynn helped invent LASEK when he was a Resident at Harvard’s Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary from 1993-1996, where two of his mentors, Juan Carlos Abbad, MD, and Jonathan Talamo, MD, developed this technique (the three of these eye surgeons also published a paper together).

Dr. Chynn has performed more ASA or LASEK procedures than any other eye surgeon in the US–over 20,000! He has preformed more ASA or LASEK procedures than every other eye surgeon in NY, NJ & CT–combined! So if you are in the NY TriState region, and want the safest non-cutting procedure, you’re lucky, because we have patients flying in from CA or FL, or sometimes, even places like London, because they want to go to the most experienced ASA surgeon in the US (and one of the most in the world).

Between 2015-2021, Dr. Chynn also performed about 5,000 epi-LASEK (also known as epi-LASIK) procedures, which is an even more advanced technique, where a plastic separator is used to delaminate the corneal epithelium, avoiding the need for alcohol, which is toxic to the regrowing corneal epithelium. This makes recovery even quicker and approaches the most rapid recovery of a LASIK or SMILE–but with better safety. Dr. Chynn has performed more epi-LASEK (or epi-LASIK) procedures than any other surgeon in the US and was instrumental in moving the entire profession of eye doctors to call the technique epi-LASEK instead of epi-LASIK (because it’s more like a LASEK than a LASIK). 

Epi-LASEK is so safe, that in 2020, Dr. Chynn became the first and only surgeon in the world to perform laser vision correction on himself, to prove to the world that this non-cutting technique is so safe, an experienced surgeon can do it himself! 

In 2022, Dr. Chynn invented the most advanced ASA technique in the world, which he named “vacuum LASEK” in which even the plastic separator is eliminated! He eliminated the plastic separator because rarely (about 1 in 1000 cases) the plastic separator intrudes into the corneal stroma, which can cause irregularities that cannot be eliminated with the laser, leading to visual distortions. In “vacuum LASEK” a gentle vacuum of air is used to allow Dr. Chynn to remove the epithelium, without the need for either alcohol or a plastic separator. 

This is currently the safest procedure to correct your prescription in the world, the safest form of ASA, and has the fastest recovery. So safe that Park Avenue LASEK is now the only laser vision correction center in the US where the operating room is all glass, so each and every procedure is visible by the general public. Like the concept of an “open kitchen” at a very high-end restaurant, this can only be done where quality control is perfect–because your customers are watching the process itself!

Anyone living in the northeastern US can drive or take a train or bus to let Dr. Chynn perform their ASA. Or they can go to a local LASIK surgeon who has performed as many ASA procedures in his or her entire career, as Dr. Chynn performs every year or month. The choice is yours!

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Why Patients Choose LASEK & LASIK Eye Surgery NYC

Park Avenue LASEK
4.7
Based on 467 reviews
I was looking into lasik and happened across LASEK, a safer, non-cutting procedure. No dry eyes, no halos, no night glare, no flap. I CHOSE Dr.chynn and Park avenue LASEK because he has done the procedure on his own eyes and he looked into why I have dry eyes. After Lasek, I’m glad that I can see everything without glasses or contactsI have dry eyes, -5.25 and -7.25
W S
W S
16:06 26 Sep 24
Great service! Totally recommend it. Doctor Chynn is very knowledgeable, so is the team!
Veronica S.
Veronica S.
20:09 17 Sep 24
Dr Chynn and the Park Avenue LASEK staff have to be easily the best trained out there in this line of work. I know, because before I had my LASEK, I was desperate to find a solution to getting rid of contacts and glasses that didn't involve cutting from LASIK or pain and scarring from PRK. Out of every place I visited only Dr Chynn seemed the most knowledgeable and rightfully so, given his 5 Ivy League degrees and membership in MENSA. His staff knows more and is better versed in not only his LASEK surgery but even the types of surgeries other doctors performMy LASEK was June 1st, 2012. Six years later and my vision is still better than 20/20. I'm actually 20/15 without any side effects and I could not be more grateful. You'd think you'd get used to having better than perfect vision but honestly, you don't. Every now and then I have a moment where I'm impressed with how sharp something looksI sincerely wouldn't look elsewhere for a better surgeon. Dr Chynn can be brusque and at times curt. This stems from his perfectionist approach to everything in his life with exacting precision leading to optimal results for his patients. His no nonsense attitude ensures you get what you pay for. As a fellow New Yorker, I recognize and respect this approach in a world of wishy-washy types who just want to tell you what you want to hear. The truth is always going to be the truth and the safest option is always going to be LASEK
Tarek E.
Tarek E.
19:27 14 Sep 24
I had an incredible experience with Park Avenue LASEK. I purchased the platinum package and was able to fully resume my life after 3 days and my eye sight is perfect. Could not have asked for better results then with Dr Chynn.
Bogart R.
Bogart R.
01:07 06 Sep 24
Great Experience at Park Avenue LasekI had a fantastic experience at Park Avenue Lasek. Dr. Chynn and the team are highly professional and attentive. What really stood out to me was their willingness to answer questions via WhatsApp—something you don’t often find. It made a big difference in feeling supported throughout the process. I highly recommend them for their expertise and personal touch. Granted I am still in recovery so I will make any updates to this review regarding my vision as time progresses.
Steven M.
Steven M.
19:02 02 Sep 24
The procedure was quick and easy as my prescription was pretty low to begin with. Pricing was honest, I liked how there was transparency because there was a pricing sheet whereas a lot of other places, the prices weren’t solid and could be variable by patient. Front staff is very nice and personable. Make sure to follow the instructions and be on top of your medications for healing. There’s also a group chat with the entire staff, including the doctor himself, which is very nice because it allowed me to trust the process more.
Irene F.
Irene F.
21:52 06 Aug 24
I made the decision to do the LASEK procedure after wearing glasses for 21 years. It was a big decision but one I knew I needed and wanted to get it done at a place that had great reviews.I was told by a relative who had lasik done years ago that it was worth it. So I came to Dr. Chynn and learned about what he does now, Lasek and what this type of procedure involves.I was educated on the procedure, pre-op steps and post-op steps.As I did the procedure, I was grateful I had the comfort package as it helped my anxieties. The entire experience was very cool and painless. Recovery was over a few days and time went by fast as your eyes and body will just want to keep sleeping.No regrets about this surgery because now I’ll be able to learn how to swim without the fear of not seeing clearly!
Melanie C.
Melanie C.
22:45 28 Jul 24
After getting LASEK here, I’m seeing even better than with my glasses! The surgery was quick and was made as comfortable as possible! Thank you so much Dr Chynn
Teresa D.
Teresa D.
17:20 08 Jul 24
Best decision I’ve ever made! Ever since my surgery, my vision has never been better. My original prescription was -4.25. Today it’s nearly 20/20 and it’s only going to get better. I cannot wait!! Dr. Chynn is excellent, along with his excellent staff! Thank you so much!
Tommy P.
Tommy P.
19:20 25 Jun 24
Dr.Chynn is simply the best. He provides an exceptional level of service, and his follow up is really second to none. I'm so glad that my daughter Catherine chose to go with him.
Susan W.
Susan W.
23:33 24 Jun 24
From 20/800(-6.75) to 20/15 vision in one week after my surgery! As a medical student I was very hesitant to get lasik done knowing the complications such as severe dry eye and night glares. Once I heard about the different surgery lasek and how this prevents those complications my interest was peaked. Dr Chynn is an incredible surgeon and I wouldn’t trust my eyes with anyone else.
Vaughn S.
Vaughn S.
19:47 05 Jun 24
I was a bad candidate for LASIK because I had a very extreme prescription. I met with Dr Chynn and his team and because they do a zero-cutting LASEK procedure it is not only safer but allows anyone who has high prescriptions/very bad vision to successfully correct their vision. I am loving not being stuck with glasses and contacts. Check them out
Arturo R.
Arturo R.
18:24 16 May 24
Praise God, I had my Park Avenue LASEK graduation! 💯🥹😃😇🙏🏿 My vision is excellent! Doctor Chynn and all of his constituents did a miraculous job! I highly recommend Park Avenue LASEK for anyone, especially with a high prescription in need of eye care. They work with smart and compliant patients. Be sure to follow the protocol given by the Surgeon and observe all ethical practices before, during, and after surgery. I thank the Surgeon and everyone here. Most importantly, I thank God for making it all possible! 🙏🏿
Leonard
Leonard
22:24 10 May 24
Doctor D was excellent! She went above and beyond to make sure my eye sight was perfect before I left. She is very knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything to me. It’s rare to find a doctor so caring and dedicated. The staff(Tarek and Britany were warm and welcoming. I highly recommend Park Avenue Lasek.
Ann F.
Ann F.
18:02 29 Apr 24
Gorgeous staff and very friendly
Nadia A
Nadia A
14:42 22 Apr 24
I searched for about 9 months for the right eye surgeon before I stumbled upon Dr. Chynn. Best decision ever. Very thorough and attentive. I'm writing this with my new eyes. Just came in for my 5 month post op and been glasses free for about 1 month. Highly recommend!
Judy Z.
Judy Z.
17:12 16 Apr 24
Doctor C and his staff were incredibly helpful, prompt, and kind!
Tatiana K.
Tatiana K.
20:48 08 Apr 24
Loving my new vision!
M S
M S
17:24 15 Nov 23
One word…Amazing! After 30+ years with glasses and contacts I can finally see and do all the things I love to do with clear vision. Park Ave Lasek changed my life.
Iris A.
Iris A.
14:40 12 Nov 23
My sister just got lasek here and we’re excited for the results
Samaiya K.
Samaiya K.
17:17 09 Nov 23
An exceptional location with an exceptional founder!He has gone above and beyond to assist Ukraine, personally delivering medical aid on two occasions. Additionally, he has sponsored three Ukrainians for U4U visas, provided them with employment, and extended his support to other Ukrainian friends.Expressing gratitude for your generosity!
Anastasia S.
Anastasia S.
15:08 03 Nov 23
Dr. Chynn does EXCEPTIONAL work! 20/20 would recommend
Mark K.
Mark K.
20:23 24 Oct 23
I traveled to NYC from out of state for Dr Chynn’s non-cutting, no-flap procedure so I could eliminate the risk of post-operative dryness, night glare, flap re-opening, etc. Two months later, I can now say that getting epi-LASEK surgery performed by Dr Chynn was well worth the added cost of travel. I am seeing 20/20 without any complications, and in his follow up care Dr Chynn is more responsive remotely than most physicians are in person! I highly recommend Dr Chynn.
Tyler S.
Tyler S.
23:59 20 Oct 23
Amazing Experience! Very Professional… happy with my results! Thank you Doc
Roes L.
Roes L.
22:04 17 Oct 23
Easy and fast procedure
Dan T.
Dan T.
20:26 17 Oct 23
Great serviceVery safe, nice people its great to see without glasses!Would highly recommend
joe B.
joe B.
19:00 11 Oct 23
Originally a -10 prescription heavily reliant on thick glasses, with this painless procedure i was seeing better than 20/20 in under a month. 3years later im still happy with my vision
Sir. P.
Sir. P.
17:19 10 Oct 23
2 and a half month post surgery and I am seeing 20/20!! : ) very happy with my results thus far!
Amanda C.
Amanda C.
20:37 05 Oct 23
Dr. Chynn had helped me with a corneal abrasion of 3 years. Seeing way better than 3 years ago after a week of treatment.
Brian P.
Brian P.
16:33 04 Oct 23
Really happy with Nana and my experience here. Had high astigmatism and was really concerned about the dry eyes associated with LASIK. Also didn’t want the risk associated with the flap.LASEK was newer and a non-cutting version of LASIK without the flap, so was really happy to get the chance to get it done with Dr Chynn, who is one of the best in the field.Really excited to be able to be free of glasses and already able to see clearly quickly post-op!
David Z.
David Z.
14:54 05 Sep 23
Evan V.
Evan V.
13:55 30 Aug 23
Dr. Chynn is extremely competent in his field. His technique involves no cutting and faster recovery! Highly recommend 😁😁 LASEK is safer than LASIK!
Jaime K.
Jaime K.
14:35 29 Aug 23
I had a left eye that was lazy & had a -10.00 Rx with astigmatism. Many doctors said nothing could be done. Went to Dr Chynn & he said he’s the only doctor in the USA who’s routinely fixing eyes like mine. He let me speak to a former similar patient. Took my medical insurance. Got that eye seeing 20/25 which is almost perfect, and better than I ever saw with glasses or contacts—without them! You really owe it to yourself to check them out. Especially if you were told your case was “hopeless” like mine!
Charles M.
Charles M.
20:02 27 Aug 23
I felt safe during my operation, and felt comfortable before and after my operation, and the doctor and employees made sure I got everything, and are patient, so I was able to get my 2020.
21 x
21 x
19:49 25 Aug 23
Dr Chynn was amazing. The office explained everything so thoroughly to an T! And I am doing so well 2 months post op I’m feeling and seeing beautifully! Dr Said was phenomenal as well. So knowledgeable and thorough!
Tashana S.
Tashana S.
19:16 18 Aug 23
I had my LASEK surgery a week ago and have had a smooth recovery process. I chose to do this because it’s safer than LASIK and the effectiveness lasts longer. I’m satisfied with my results and can’t wait to start getting back into running/sports with my new eyes.
yasmeen R.
yasmeen R.
14:29 15 Aug 23
I'm currently one week post opp and am happy with my results so far. The staff was very friendly and efficient on the day of my surgery and made sure I felt relaxed and that all my questions were answered. The procedure was quick and painless. I would definitely recommend Park Avenue Lasek to family and friends!
Amanda C.
Amanda C.
13:35 01 Aug 23
I love the detailed instructions provided by the doctor explaining the whole process.
Eman B.
Eman B.
20:40 31 Jul 23
Got the surgery 8 days ago and my eyes are clearer than ever. Used to be -9.00 and had to rely on contact lenses and glasses every single day. Now life is so much easier. Dr.Chynn is strict and professional, he suggested that I choose LASEK because I have a high prescription,other surgeries weren’t suitable for me. Unlike LASIK, LASEK is a non-cutting laser vision correction, making it the safest option. Moreover, the entire team is really nice, informative, and never refused to answer when you have any questions.
Lucy L.
Lucy L.
19:02 28 Jul 23
Dr .Chynn and staff were amazing at Park Avenue LASEK. Highly recommend LASEK over LASIK because it's non-cutting and safer. My vision is fantastic now. Sometimes it catches me off guard how great it is.
Steven S.
Steven S.
17:05 28 Jul 23
Me and my friends both did lasek by Dr Chynn. Results are good. I strongly recommend him.
X Z
X Z
23:36 27 Jul 23
So excited to say goodbye to contacts!!
Bella J L.
Bella J L.
21:49 26 Jul 23
Nice place and nice people felt very safe during surgery
Me M.
Me M.
20:08 21 Jul 23

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Why Haven’t You Gotten Laser Vision Correction Yet?

Dr. Chynn graduated from Dartmouth + Columbia + Harvard + Emory + NYU and has been featured on CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, Discovery Channel & in the NY Times & Wall St. Journal

He’s performed 1,000 PRKs, 5,000 LASIKs, 10,000 epiLASEKs, 15,000 LASEKs – more than any surgeon in the US

He got LASIK in his right eye & LASEK in his left eye, so is UNIQUELY qualified to tell you the +/-‘s of BOTH procedures – from BOTH a Surgeon’s & Patient’s point-of-view!

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