What Is The Difference Between Lasik And PRK

// September 24, 2024

At Excel Eye Center, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with blurry vision on a daily basis. Constantly reaching for your glasses or fumbling with contacts can significantly impact your quality of life. While glasses and contacts work well enough for many individuals, some patients want a more permanent solution to their vision problems. If you feel your vision holds you back, LASIK surgery or PRK could transform your life.

LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK eye surgery is a revolutionary procedure that can eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. This procedure can correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Before LASIK surgery, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if the procedure can safely help you. This painless evaluation includes checking for issues like infection, inflammation, dry eyes, large pupils, and high eye pressure, as well as measuring and evaluating the condition of your corneas.

On the day of the surgery, you will need someone to accompany you to and from your appointment. The actual LASIK procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete. You will be awake throughout the surgery, but numbing drops will ensure that you feel no pain. If both eyes require treatment, the surgeon will perform the procedure on both eyes during the same session.

Temporary side effects may include dry eyes, glare, halos, and temporary visual disturbances, which usually resolve within a few weeks post-surgery. Patients commonly experience dry eyes for up to six months following LASIK surgery, and your doctor may prescribe artificial tears or drops to keep your eyes moist during the healing process. Long-term complications and risks associated with LASIK surgery are rare.

PRK Eye Surgery

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is another type of eye surgery that can address vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Individuals who are not candidates for LASIK may be great candidates for PRK.

The PRK surgical technique differs from the LASIK surgical technique. With PRK, your eye surgeon does not need to create a flap on the cornea to correct vision problems. Some patients and professionals consider PRK a safer and more effective long-term solution because the absence of a corneal flap decreases the risk of potential complications.

Before undergoing PRK surgery, you will meet with our eye doctor and surgeon to evaluate your eye health, assess the condition of your cornea(s), discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, and address any concerns you may have. On the day of the surgery, you will require a companion to drive you to and from the appointment. The PRK procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes, and numbing drops will ensure a pain-free experience. If both eyes need treatment, the surgeon will treat them simultaneously.

Recovery from PRK surgery may take longer than recovery from LASIK. Temporary side effects, including dry eyes, glare, halos, and temporary visual issues, can last up to six months. However, long-term complications and risks following PRK surgery are rare.

Should you get Lasik or PRK?

When deciding between LASIK and PRK surgery, consider several factors:

Eye Health

Some eye conditions may make you a better candidate for PRK over LASIK or vice versa. Undergo a comprehensive evaluation with an eye doctor to assess your eye health and determine the best course of action.

Corneal Thickness

LASIK requires creating a corneal flap, which may not be possible if your corneas are too thin. In such cases, PRK may be a better option.

Lifestyle

If you play contact sports or do other intense activities that increase the risk of eye trauma, PRK may be a safer choice since it does not involve the creation of a corneal flap.

Long-Term Considerations

Some individuals believe that PRK may offer better long-term results due to the absence of a corneal flap.

Recovery Time

PRK typically has a longer recovery period than LASIK, as the outer layer of the cornea needs to regenerate. If you prefer a quicker recovery time, LASIK may be the better option.

Ultimately, you should consult your eye doctor to help you choose between LASIK and PRK. They will assess your needs, evaluate your eye health, and help you determine which procedure is the most suitable for achieving clear, crisp vision.

Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive Lens Exchange is another vision-correcting surgical procedure. It involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). By exchanging the natural lens with an IOL, the eye can properly transmit light through the lens to the retina, allowing for clear processing of light and color. Refractive Lens Exchange enhances vision clarity and addresses nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia and astigmatism.

During the Refractive Lens Exchange procedure, our surgeon carefully removes the existing lens by creating a small opening in the side of the cornea using a thin, needle-like tool. The surgeon then breaks up the lens and sucks it out. Next, they insert the IOL to complete the process. The procedure typically lasts around 15 minutes, and the new intraocular lens provides clear vision for the rest of the patient’s life.

People recover from Refractive Lens Exchange relatively quickly. Most patients regain full eye function and resume normal activities within three days.

Schedule an appointment

LASIK surgery and PRK are both effective options for correcting vision problems and achieving clear vision. At Excel Eye Center, our experienced team provides personalized care and guidance throughout your journey to better sight. If you need LASIK in Utah, take the next step towards a life free from glasses and contacts. Schedule an appointment with us today.