The team at Atlantic Laser Vision Center has helped countless patients throughout the Monmouth County area see clearly again. We offer the latest in refractive surgery procedures, including PRK (photorefractive keratectomy)and LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis).

A number of prospective patients have asked us how PRK compares to LASIK. Let’s take a moment to look at both procedures right now.

About PRK

PRK is a type of refractive surgery that was very common before LASIK was developed and became the new standard in laser eye surgery. During PRK, the epithelium (the topmost layer of the cornea) is removed. A surgical laser is then used to precisely reshape the cornea, improving the passage of light through the eyes so that it focuses properly on the retina.

PRK is ideal for treating myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. After PRK, a patient can see clearly without the assistance of corrective lenses.

About LASIK

LASIK is very similar to PRK in that it can also treat refractive errors, which you know better as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The primary difference is that the epithelium remains intact during LASIK. Instead, a surgeon create a small epithelial flap, which is raised up to allow the laser to reshape the cornea. The flap is set back down after the corneal reshaping is completed.

Are the Results of PRK and LASIK Comparable?

Yes.

By and large, the overall vision quality achieved by PRK and LASIK surgeries is the same, with the vast majority of patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. Patient satisfaction is quite high, and many PRK and LASIK patients are able to enjoy life without worrying about the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The Advantages of LASIK Over PRK

LASIK tends to have a slightly shorter and less uncomfortable recovery time than PRK. This is because the epithelium remains intact as a flap rather than being removed. While PRK patients are able to tolerate the discomfort associated with recovery, LASIK patients certainly have fewer issues in this regard.

The Advantages of PRK Over LASIK

The primary advantage of PRK over LASIK is that it allows people who are poor candidates for LASIK to undergo a refractive procedure. Sometimes corneal thickness and shape makes a person a poor candidate for LASIK. Yet that patient may still be eligible for PRK.

Sometimes a refractive surgeon may suggest PRK over LASIK even if a patient is eligible for both surgeries depending on the nature of his or her refractive error. This varies, obviously, which is why it’s important to meet with a skilled eye care specialist.

The Consultation Process: The Best Choice for You

Since PRK and LASIK are comparable in terms of overall results, it’s imperative that you visit a skilled vision correction specialist to learn more about your eye care options. During this consultation, you will receive all the information you need to make a smart decision about your vision.

Contact Atlantic Laser Vision Center

For more information about PRK, LASIK, and your many other options for advanced eye care and refractive surgery. be sure to contact our advanced vision correction center today. The team at Atlantic Laser Vision Center looks forward to your visit and helping you make ideal choices about your eyesight.