LASIK vs. PRK

You may have heard of LASIK and/or PRK surgery from friends, co-workers or family members, but you might not know the difference between the two. Both LASIK and PRK are refractive procedures that can enhance vision and correct poor eyesight. They are both outpatient procedures and can be completed in less than 20 minutes in most cases. The basic difference between LASIK and PRK surgery is that LASIK correction is performed under a corneal flap, while PRK surgery is performed on the surface of the cornea.

LASIK (Laser In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery utilizes a blade called a microkeratome or an excimer laser to cut a flap into the cornea. From there, the laser is used to send pulses into the cornea to reshape it to correct vision conditions like myopia and astigmatism. The LASIK procedure preserves the cells on the surface of the cornea, called epithelial cells.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) surgery, on the other hand, reshapes the surface of the cornea directly without a flap. In PRK surgery, on average, less than 10 percent of the cornea is affected and the deeper layers of the cornea remain intact. Hence, it is more friendly to the cornea by preserving significantly more corneal tissue.

Is There a Difference in Healing?

After LASIK the corneal flap is placed back into its original position after the surgery. The eye has natural suction that allows it to stay in place in order to heal. In PRK there is no flap and the healing occurs on the corneal surface. Healing times vary per person, but typically range from one to three days for flap closure in the case of LASIK. The following day will result in significantly improved vision, with continued improvement over the next few days. PRK takes on average 3-7 days to reach functional levels and anywhere between 1-4 weeks to get to its maximum sharpness.

What About Pain?

Traditionally, there is more post-op discomfort possible with PRK surgery, since the epithelial cells have been removed and must regrow (takes 3-7 days on average). Every person is different though, and some PRK patients have little to no discomfort.

Which is Right For Me?

LASIK is generally ideal for patients who have thick corneas and require faster results. Even though LASIK is the more popular choice, PRK is undoubtedly safer for other people, including those with thin corneal tissue, flat corneas, corneal irregularities or scars.

We Can Help You Decide

At The Fifth Avenue Eye Center, your eye health is our number one priority. We specialize in a variety of vision correction procedures so that you have ample choices when it comes to your vision. We don’t believe in one-stop-shopping for New York LASIK surgery. We believe that you should have as many options as possible so that together, we can tailor your vision correction surgery to give you the best result possible.

Call us today or click our appointment link online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Cohen today. As a respected and talented ophthalmologic professional, Dr. Cohen has long track record of success. He will work with you personally to create a surgery plan that is especially designed for you. We are proud to say that we get much of our business from referrals and look forward to adding you to the list of our extremely satisfied customers.