What is the difference between LASIK eye surgery and PRK?
LASIK surgery and PRK are both effective laser procedures for vision correction. During LASIK eye surgery, a thin flap is made on the cornea. This flap is lifted and the laser treatment is performed beneath the flap. Once the laser removes the corneal tissue, the flap is replaced. Since the surface of the cornea (epithelium) is preserved, LASIK patients see well the day following their procedure. With PRK surgery, the laser treatment is performed directly on the surface of the cornea – there is no flap. PRK patients require a longer recovery period for the epithelium to heal and allow clearer vision. Although these differences in healing patterns exist, patients can feel comfortable in their choice of either PRK or LASIK eye surgery because the final results are the same. Based on your consultation and the examination performed at our office in Springfield, Massachusetts, your eye surgeon will help determine the most suitable procedure for you.
