LASIK vs. PRK: Which Laser Vision Correction Is Right for Me?

LASIK and PRK are laser eye surgeries that share much in common; both can be used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. However, each of these procedures has its advantages and disadvantages. You should discuss which laser eye surgery option may better suit your needs during an initial consultation with Dr. Farooq Ashraf of Atlanta Vision Institute.

In this post, Dr. Ashraf and his team discuss some of the basic differences between LASIK and PRK.

LASIK: The Most Popular Laser Eye Surgery

The first step of LASIK involves creating a flap in the surface of the cornea to access the underlying tissue. Then, an excimer laser reshapes the deeper corneal tissue to improve the way light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. When the laser treatment is complete, the flap is restored to its original position over the cornea and heals on its own.

LASIK offers several benefits when compared to PRK:

• The recovery time is short. Patients can often resume most daily activities within 24 hours.
• LASIK has a low risk of post-surgery complications.
• LASIK patients generally experience less discomfort during their recovery period than PRK patients.

PRK: A Good Option for Active Patients

PRK does not involve the creation of a corneal flap. Instead, a portion of the outer layer of cornea cells is removed. The laser is then used to reshape the underlying tissue, and a bandage contact lens is placed over the eye to protect it as it heals. The outer layer of the corneal cells regenerates in the days following the procedure.

Individuals who work in physically demanding or high-risk occupations where collisions or accidents are common may be better suited to PRK, as there is no risk of damaging or dislodging a healing corneal flap.

Which Laser Eye Surgery is Right for You?

Dr. Ashraf will consider many factors, including your eye’s unique anatomy, when recommending the right laser vision correction surgery for your needs. For example, if upon examination he discovers you have thin corneas that cannot withstand the creation of a corneal flap, he may suggest you undergo PRK instead.

If Dr. Ashraf feels you qualify for either procedure, you may prefer the faster recovery period from LASIK surgery along with the reduced risk of post-surgery complications.

To determine which procedure is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ashraf. You can learn more about each type of laser eye surgery, and Dr. Ashraf will answer any questions you have. Schedule your consultation by calling Atlanta Vision Institute at (770) 622-2488 today.