LASIK vs. PRK: Know The Different Eye Procedures

With regard to vision correction surgery, LASIK and PRK are the most popular types of procedures. Both of them are used to treat refractive disorders like myopia which is near-sightedness, hyperopia which is far-sightedness, and astigmatism through altering the cornea shape. Nevertheless, they vary with regard to approaches, duration, and indications for the patient. Knowing these differences can assist you in being able to determine which procedure would be most suitable for you. Below we will discuss the major differences between these two procedures.

Procedure Techniques

The major distinction between LASIK and PRK has to do with the kind of access and management of the cornea. In LASIK, a flap is made on the cornea surface with the help of a microkeratome blade or femtosecond laser. This flap is then reflected to give the excimer laser a working surface to vaporize some of the corneal stroma underneath and then the flap is then repositioned. While LASIK does entail the creation of a flap, PRK does not. Instead, the surface layer of the cornea known as the epithelium is totally excised to access the next layer of the cornea that is then sculptured by the excimer laser. Epithelial tissue grows back on its own within a few days after the surgery has been done.

Recovery Times

The duration that is taken for recovery after undergoing LASIK and PRK differs a lot. LASIK can be said to require a shorter recovery period as the patient’s vision may be fully restored within 24-48 hours and the patient can resume most of his/her routine within a few days. PRK takes a longer time to heal as compared to LASIK since the surface of the eye is replaced. Therefore, patients may complain of discomfort, blurred vision, and photophobia for several days to up to one week. Recovery of the full vision may take several weeks to several months. Patients looking for more information on PRK or Lasik Surgery in Lahore can visit an eye specialist.

Suitability for Patients

Both LASIK and PRK can be done for almost anyone, but there are some situations when one procedure is more indicated than the other. As for the thickness of the cornea, LASIK is more suitable for patients with thicker corneas since the creation of the flap is dependent on the corneal thickness. PRK might be recommended for patients with thinner corneas, those with dry eye or those who are more prone to eye injury for instance athletes since no flap is made that can be compromised. Also, PRK is considered suitable for patients with large pupil size or irregular corneal topography.

Risks and Complications

Both LASIK and PRK are very safe procedures with a high degree of satisfaction, but there are always certain risks and possible side effects. The main disadvantage of the flap creation step of LASIK is the occurrence of flap complications including flap dislocation or epithelial ingrowth. Thus, although PRK does not have flap complications, it has more post-operative discomfort and slower visual outcome. All the two procedures have side effects that include infection, dry eyes, glare, halos, and under or over correction of vision. These risks are generally mild and can easily be handled if the patient follows the doctor’s instructions and comes for follow-up appointments.

Visual Outcomes

Concerning the visual results, both procedures are comparable as most patients regain normal vision or even achieve 20/20 vision. Research has established that in the long run, the visual acuity and the level of satisfaction are similar for both the two operations. When it comes to the decision between LASIK and PRK, the differences between the two procedures are more about the patient’s personal characteristics and daily routine than the effectiveness of treatment.

Conclusion

Comparing LASIK and PRK is not an easy task as it depends a lot on the individual’s eye condition, his or her lifestyle, and his or her preference. When comparing the two, patients find that LASIK is easier and takes less time to heal and causes minimal discomfort afterward. PRK can be considered safer than LASIK especially for patients with thinner cornea or those patients who are more likely to be involved in an eye injury as it has a longer healing period. To get Lasik Surgery in Islamabad, talk to an eye specialist to choose the most appropriate option and to get the most effective results of the ophthalmic surgery to enhance vision.