DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LASIK SURGERY AND PRK
Have you ever dreamed of life without glasses or contacts? Millions have. And by choosing Laser Vision Correction, they finally see clearly. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between LASIK surgery and PRK.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is the most popular surgical procedure to correct vision problems caused by refractive error or the failure of the eye to focus light properly. LASIK is a type of Laser Vision Correction performed by a surgeon using a computer-controlled laser that emits precise pulses of energy to reshape the cornea.
LASIK dramatically reduces the need for glasses or contact lenses by treating nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. After LASIK, nearly all patients see well enough that they don’t need glasses or contacts for most or all activities requiring distance vision.
What is PRK?
PRK, which stands for photo-refractive keratectomy, works in exactly the same general way as LASIK by reshaping the cornea of the eye so that it better focuses incoming light.
While both LASIK and PRK are two-step processes, in PRK the first step is different. Whereas LASIK involves providing the laser treatment under a flap, PRK is the application of the laser treatment on the corneal surface.
Will LASIK or PRK Hurt?
Patients generally experience no pain during their LASIK or PRK procedure. Eyes are numbed using eye drop anesthesia prior to the procedure. After the numbing wears off, some discomfort from the procedure might be felt for up to 6-8 hours after LASIK. For PRK, a foreign body sensation and light sensitivity could persist for a few days while the surface of the eye heals. To help the PRK healing process, a temporary, clear protective lens is placed over the cornea for four to seven days.
Is LASIK or PRK Surgery Right for Me?
Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. Your cornea might be too thin, or the shape of your eye might not be appropriate for LASIK treatment. But with PRK, you still have an excellent option to improve your vision.
To determine whether LASIK or PRK is the best option for you, please contact us for a no-obligation exam and consultation. We’ll conduct a thorough and complete examination of your eyes to determine whether you are a good candidate for surgery.