Sunalp LaserVision
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
The Difference between PRK and LASIK
If you’re considering refractive surgery to correct your vision, you might be wondering about the difference between PRK and LASIK. Both procedures offer excellent results and correct your vision in similar ways, but there are a few differences:
Shaping the Cornea
During the PRK procedure, your doctor uses a laser to reshape your cornea’s surface, and the superficial corneal layers must heal. You can expect a more lengthy recovery period, a few more visits to the doctor, and a longer period before your best vision is restored.
During a LASIK procedure, the cornea is reshaped from the inside through a corneal flap. This means a shorter recovery time and a faster route to your best vision.
Previous Vision Conditions
For patients with a thin cornea, PRK is the recommended treatment. PRK is also advisable for patients with:
Because PRK does not involve the creation of a corneal flap, PRK is an easier surgery for your doctor to perform. Therefore, PRK is often preferable for patients who may not be able to stay still for the entire procedure, such as individuals with certain medical conditions and younger patients.
If you’d like to talk about which of these procedures is right for you, contact Sunalp Laser Vision to schedule a private consultation.
Shaping the Cornea
During the PRK procedure, your doctor uses a laser to reshape your cornea’s surface, and the superficial corneal layers must heal. You can expect a more lengthy recovery period, a few more visits to the doctor, and a longer period before your best vision is restored.
During a LASIK procedure, the cornea is reshaped from the inside through a corneal flap. This means a shorter recovery time and a faster route to your best vision.
Previous Vision Conditions
For patients with a thin cornea, PRK is the recommended treatment. PRK is also advisable for patients with:
- Certain corneal dystrophies
- Corneal scars
- Recurrent corneal erosion (painful condition similar to corneal abrasion)
Because PRK does not involve the creation of a corneal flap, PRK is an easier surgery for your doctor to perform. Therefore, PRK is often preferable for patients who may not be able to stay still for the entire procedure, such as individuals with certain medical conditions and younger patients.
If you’d like to talk about which of these procedures is right for you, contact Sunalp Laser Vision to schedule a private consultation.
posted by Patti at 3:15 PM
See for yourself just how easy, pain-free and affordable LASIK can be with the right doctor. Se habla espanol!
Se Habla Espanol!


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