What is the difference between PRK, LASIK and RK?
A. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis) both use the VISX laser system to remove corneal tissue and thereby flatten the cornea for nearsightedness or steepen it for farsightedness. In the PRK procedure, the laser operates on the surface of the cornea. Because the epithelium is removed, patients may experience blurry or hazy vision for 3-5 days and variable discomfort until epithelium heals and covers treated area. Eye drops are typically used for the longer periods of time after PRK to reduce the chances of developing haze. LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis) is the newest and most advance application of the computer-controlled laser to reshape the cornea. The physician uses an instrument called a microkeratome to create a circular flap of corneal tissue. The laser reshaping is performed under this protective flap to correct nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness. Because the front surface of the cornea is not altered and the extraordinar
