Posted by: Eye Surgeons of Indiana in LASIK, PRK

If you are considering laser eye surgery to correct your vision, you may be wondering about the differences between the two most common procedures: LASIK and PRK. Both procedures use laser technology to reshape the cornea and improve vision, but there are some key distinctions.

Keep reading to learn what LASIK and PRK are, their similarities and differences, and how to determine which procedure may be the best fit for you!

What is LASIK? 

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a popular laser eye surgery used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. In this procedure, the LASIK surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin, precise flap in the outer layer of the cornea. 

The flap is then lifted to expose the inner corneal tissue. An excimer laser is used to carefully reshape the cornea by removing microscopic amounts of tissue. 

This reshaping corrects the refractive errors causing vision problems. After the reshaping is complete, the flap is gently repositioned.

LASIK has a rapid visual recovery, and the results are permanent. Additionally, LASIK has an excellent safety profile and high patient satisfaction rates.

At Eye Surgeons of Indiana, our surgeons utilize the state-of-the-art Alcon Refractive Suite for our LASIK procedures. This advanced technology includes the Wavelight FS200 femtosecond laser for corneal flap creation and the Wavelight EX500 excimer laser for precise corneal reshaping. 

What is PRK?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is another type of laser eye surgery that utilizes the same excimer laser as LASIK. It is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas or certain corneal irregularities that make them non-candidates for LASIK. 

In PRK, no corneal flap is created. Instead, the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is gently removed.

The excimer laser is then applied to the exposed corneal surface to reshape it, similar to LASIK.  A protective contact lens is placed over the eye to facilitate the healing of the epithelium, which regenerates over the next few days.

Visual recovery after PRK is more gradual compared to LASIK. Most patients achieve functional vision within a few days, but it can take a few weeks to reach the final visual outcome.

As with LASIK, the results of PRK are permanent, though natural age-related vision changes can still occur. PRK has a long history of success and safety in improving vision.

What Are the Similarities Between PRK and LASIK?

PRK and LASIK share several similarities:

  • Both procedures utilize excimer laser technology to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors
  • The final visual outcomes of PRK and LASIK are comparable
  • Both procedures are performed on an outpatient basis
  • PRK and LASIK are considered safe and effective for properly screened candidates.
  • The results of both procedures are permanent

While the recovery process and initial visual outcomes may differ between PRK and LASIK, both procedures ultimately aim to provide patients with clear, sharp vision and reduced dependence on corrective visual aids. The long-term efficacy and patient satisfaction rates are high for both PRK and LASIK when performed on suitable candidates by experienced eye surgeons.

What Are the Differences Between PRK and LASIK? 

Despite their similarities, PRK and LASIK have some notable differences:

Corneal Flap

LASIK involves creating a corneal flap, while PRK does not. In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea is removed instead.

Visual Recovery

In most cases, LASIK offers a faster visual recovery, with most patients seeing clearly within a day or two. PRK recovery is more gradual, taking days to weeks.

Candidacy

LASIK requires a minimum corneal thickness to safely create the flap. PRK may be recommended for patients with thinner corneas or certain irregularities.

The choice between LASIK and PRK depends on various factors, including your corneal thickness, overall eye health, and personal preferences. In some cases, PRK may be the safer or more appropriate option, while in others, LASIK may be the preferred choice. 

Your eye surgeon will help you weigh the pros and cons of each procedure based on your individual needs and goals.

How Do I Know If I Am a Good Candidate For LASIK or PRK?

The best way to determine your candidacy for LASIK or PRK is through a comprehensive evaluation with an experienced eye surgeon. At the LASIK Center at Eye Surgeons of Indiana, we carefully screen each patient to ensure they meet the criteria for a safe and successful procedure.

In general, good candidates for LASIK or PRK are at least eighteen years old, have had a stable vision prescription for at least a year, and have healthy eyes free from certain conditions like severe dry eye or corneal disease. Candidates should also have realistic expectations about their potential visual outcome.

Factors that may affect your candidacy or lead your surgeon to recommend PRK over LASIK include:

  • Thin corneas
  • Certain corneal irregularities or scarring 
  • Chronic dry eye
  • A very high refractive error
  • Certain systemic health conditions or medications

If you are not a candidate for LASIK or PRK, your eye doctor may offer alternative refractive surgery options and will work with you to find the best solution for your needs.

Start Your Journey to Visual Freedom

LASIK and PRK are both laser vision correction procedures that can offer life-changing results, reducing or eliminating dependence on glasses and contact lenses. While they share the same goal of reshaping the cornea to improve vision, they differ in their surgical approach, recovery process, and candidacy criteria. 

A thorough evaluation with a trusted eye doctor is the key to determining which procedure is right for you. At Eye Surgeons of Indiana LASIK Center, we are committed to providing our patients with the safest, most advanced technology and personalized care in laser vision correction. 

Are you interested in learning more about your vision correction options? Schedule an appointment at Eye Surgeons of Indiana LASIK Center in Indianapolis, IN, today!