What Are the Differences Between LASIK and PRK Eye Surgeries?

The cornea comprises five layers of tissue that bend to focus the light entering the eye. These layers allow a clear retina image, leading to 20/20 vision. Many people, however, struggle with irregularities in the shape of their cornea, making them reliant on glasses or contact lenses. Laser eye correction surgeries like LASIK and PRK provide patients with a more permanent solution. 

What is Laser Eye Correction Surgery?

Laser vision correction uses laser technology to reshape the cornea. After a comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Vold and the physicians at Vold Vision tailor a treatment plan based on your eyes to help you achieve the best possible outcome, including choosing the best laser vision correction surgery for your eyes. 

What is the Difference Between LASIK and PRK?

LASIK and PRK are laser eye surgeries that correct irregularities in the corneal tissue. Either technique may be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but the difference lies in the methods used during surgery. 

LASIK

Due to its early introduction to the market, LASIK is one of the most popular laser vision correction surgeries. During LASIK eye surgery, your surgeon creates a small flap with a femtosecond laser. After moving the layer to the side, an excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue and fixes irregularities within the cornea. 

Once the laser finishes correcting your cornea, your surgeon gently replaces the flap over the eye. During the next few months, your cornea will heal naturally. After LASIK eye surgery, most patients notice an immediate improvement in their vision.

PRK (LASEK)

PRK is a more recent development on the market. In the early stages, PRK was referred to as LASEK, a technique that removes the top layer of cells known as the epithelium. Rather than creating a flap or removing the cells, PRK eye surgery uses alcohol to move the cells temporarily. 

After moving the top layer, the surgeon uses lasers to reshape the other layers of the cornea, correcting any refractive errors. Then, the cells are gently replaced over the cornea. Your vision may be blurry for a week after surgery. 

Should I Get LASIK or PRK Eye Surgery?

For most patients, LASIK is a good fit for their eye surgery, but there are instances where PRK may be better. If you have thin corneas or are at risk for eye trauma, such as participating in contact sports, PRK may be a better fit. 

During your comprehensive eye exam, your Vold Vision provider determines which laser vision correction surgery best fits your eyes and lifestyle. All patients must be at least 18 with a stable prescription for a year before considering laser eye surgery. 

Take the Next Step

You’ll benefit not only from the latest technologies available but also from our compassionate, personal approach. You’re more than a patient at Vold Vision in Bentonville and Fayetteville. We strive to make you as comfortable as possible while evaluating the optimal treatment plan just for you. We invite Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, and Springdale residents to contact us today for a consultation at (479) 442-8653.