LASIK is a popular refractive surgery used to correct refractive errors. These include farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism.
But before LASIK, there was another procedure. This was a procedure known as PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy).
PRK was FDA approved in 1996 as a safe and effective procedure to correct refractive errors. LASIK was approved three years later and has since then become immensely popular.
Even so, there are situations where patients consider PRK, especially when they don’t qualify for LASIK. Keep reading to learn why you should consider PRK if you’re not a LASIK candidate!
Why is LASIK More Popular than PRK?
LASIK grew to be more preferred to PRK because the recovery period for LASIK was shorter. Further, LASIK allows patients to achieve visual acuity and clarity faster than PRK.
Most LASIK patients experience excellent vision a few hours after surgery.
What is the Difference Between PRK and LASIK?
The main difference between the two is that LASIK involves creating a flap. The flap created is through the external tissue of the eye and into the cornea.
It’s through this opening that eye surgeons use an excimer laser to change the shape of the cornea. The flap is then replaced after reshaping the cornea.
When it comes to PRK, there’s no flap made at all. Instead, the top layer of the eye is removed and discarded, giving access to the stroma.
The cornea is then reshaped, after which the eye regenerates a new epithelial layer. This is why PRK has a longer recovery period.
It takes more time for the new cells to regenerate compared to how long it takes the flap to heal during LASIK.
Why Should You Choose PRK If You’re Not A Candidate for LASIK?
It’s possible to not qualify for LASIK if you have a history of dry eyes or a thin cornea. If you get LASIK, your cornea needs to be thick enough to safely remove tissue.
If you find out you don’t qualify for LASIK, PRK may be another option to consider. Without a corneal flap to worry about, you can still correct your vision with PRK.
Will PRK Deliver the Same Results as LASIK?
What’s great about PRK is it delivers almost identical results compared to LASIK. Recovery may take weeks, and final results appear after about three months.
PRK surgery is as safe and effective as LASIK. The procedure also carries a high rate of patient satisfaction, just like LASIK.
Choosing PRK
If the only reason you didn’t qualify for LASIK is because of having thin corneas, you’re probably a good PRK candidate. But you should make this decision with your eye doctor.
Your eye doctor will help you understand if PRK is the right procedure for you. If it’s not, there are other vision correction options available.
Want to find out more about PRK and if it could be right for you? Schedule an appointment at Herschel LASIK and Cataract Institute in Orlando, FL today!
