What is the difference between LASIK, PRK and RK?
Both LASIK and PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy) use the Excimer Laser to reshape the cornea to reduce nearsightedness. With the PRK, the laser is used on the surface of the cornea and in LASIK, the laser is used under a protective flap of corneal tissue. Having the treatment area on the surface of the cornea creates a longer healing time and it can take several weeks to achieve good vision. With the treatment area under the protective flap in LASIK, the eye heals faster and visual recovery is quicker. With the PRK, steroid drops are sometimes needed for several months. With the LASIK procedure, enhancements are easier since the flap can be re-lifted for a period of time without requiring use of the microkeratome. RK (Radial Keratotomy) is an incisional form of refractive surgery. A delicate diamond blade is used to create thin incisions on the front surface of the cornea. The incisions are made in a radial pattern, like the spokes of a wheel. The central part of the cornea is not tre
