Technology has made huge advancements in vision restoration, but how do you know which vision correction surgery is right for you? To help you understand the two most popular techniques, we at Advanced Lasik are providing this information about Lasik and PRK, both of which uses lasers to improve your vision.
Laser surgery has become one of the most widely used procedures worldwide to correct vision problems such as myopia, astigmatism, farsightedness, and tired eyesight.
Laser in-situ keratomileusis (Lasik), the most common vision correction surgery, has been around for over 25 years. The Lasik technique lifts a thin layer of your cornea to reshape its curvature. This allows your cornea and lens to bend light rays (refraction) so that they can focus clearly on your retina. Lasik is popular for good reason. It’s one of the most widely performed interventions thanks to its incredible results.
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is actually the predecessor to Lasik surgery. PRK reshapes the cornea, just as Lasik does. The key difference between these two procedures is the first step in the vision correction process.
During a Lasik procedure, a laser creates a thin flap on your cornea. Dr. Randa Garrana lifts the flap, then replaces that flap once she completes the correction with an excimer laser.
During the PRK process, the outer layer of your cornea is completely removed and grows back a few days following the vision correction surgery.
The good news is that both Lasik and PRK procedures are equally effective. At our Advanced Lasik offices in New York City and Long Beach, California, Dr. Garrana offers both Lasik and PRK to help you regain excellent vision. Most patients experience 20/25 vision after their procedure, making glasses or contacts no longer necessary.
Is one procedure better than the other for you and your lifestyle? Maybe, but either option restores your vision based on your overall eye health. There are a few things to consider.
Lasik patients have a slightly quicker recovery and see better almost immediately following the surgery. PRK is best for patients with a thin cornea, but it does take a little longer to heal and a bit more time to get the full benefits of restored eyesight.
Both procedures are safe and effective treatments. But because the PRK procedure requires your body to take care of the healing itself, you may have some additional irritation for a few days after. Any discomfort following the Lasik surgery will probably last less than a few hours following the procedure. Some other temporary side effects include light sensitivity and blurry vision for both treatments.
In fact, according to a 2017 analysis by the Food and Drug Administration, doctors proved that the newest lasers used in vision correction procedures significantly reduce these side effects. Modern lasers are simply better than the older versions were.
PRK and Lasik are out-patient procedures, so time off work or school is minimal. Dr. Garrana guides you through your options and helps you make the best choice. For example, if you have a thin cornea, you most likely need PRK. Additionally, those with chronic dry eyes should avoid Lasik and opt for PRK instead.
But according to the American Refractive Surgery Council, you are a good candidate for Lasik if you:
At Advanced Lasik, Dr. Garrana is guided by the principle that safety and excellence cannot be spared when caring for something as crucial as your eyesight. Whether you’re on the West Coast or the East Coast, make an appointment with Dr. Garrana today to talk about your options.
