LASIK vs. PRK: Understanding Your Vision Correction Options

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) are treatments used to correct vision problems. Both procedures employ lasers for corneal reshaping, but there are some differences in the way the procedures are preformed.

Conditions Treated

• According to allaboutvision.com, LASIK and PRK can both be used to treat people that are near-sighted, far-sighted or those that have astigmatism.

Procedures

• Both procedures are performed on an out-patient basis and involve anesthetizing the eyes prior to using the laser to remove corneal tissue (ablation). The LASIK procedure also involves cutting a corneal flap and moving it to the side so the laser can hit the cornea directly while PRK does not.

Equipment

• LASIK and PRK employ excimer lasers, which perform the actual tissue ablation that reshapes the cornea. LASIK additionally employs a microkeratome (an extremely sharp, precision instrument) to make the corneal flap.

Differences

• Two major differences between the procedures are post-operative pain and recovery time. Those that receive PRK have a longer recovery time and tend to report higher levels of pain after the procedure than those who receive LASIK.

Outcomes

• Both procedures are able to produce significant vision correction, up to 20/20 (perfect) vision. The success rate is equivalent for both procedures.