LASIK vs. PRK Vision Correction. What’s the Difference?
Laser Vision Correction
When your cornea is misshaped, you
experience refractive error, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or
astigmatism. Laser vision correction is the procedure through which a laser is
used to reshape the cornea of the eye, in order to achieve better vision.
While the actual correction of the
cornea is completed with a laser, the steps leading up to this correction, and
subsequently the healing after, will differ depending on the specific procedure
the surgeon chooses for the patients’ eyes. The two main procedures used are
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratectomy) or PRK (Photorefractive
Keratectomy).
LASIK and PRK
Dr. Kenneth Lipstock says, “Most
people have heard of LASIK and end up having the LASIK procedure. However, in
some cases, LASIK isn’t the best procedure for them. This can be due to a
multitude of reasons, but most often if their cornea is too thin, LASIK will
not be advised.” This is why visiting an ophthalmologist that performs more
than just LASIK is so important. “Other procedures, such as PRK, can be
recommended and performed to achieve the same results,” continued Dr. Lipstock.
The main difference between LASIK and
PRK comes during the second step of the process – creating the corneal flap.
During LASIK, the surgeon must create a flap within the first few layers of the
outer surface of the cornea, so that the laser will only reach the area that
needs to be corrected. This can be done with a microkeratome blade, or during
bladeless LASIK it can be done with a second laser that separates the outer
layer of the cornea. After the primary laser is applied to correct the
refractive error, this flap is folded back into place where it bonds readily.
PRK, which is performed on patients
with thin corneas, removes the outer layer of the cornea completely. These
cells are discarded and the body will regenerate new cells to replace them
through the healing process. The results of PRK are equal to
that of LASIK, however the healing time may take several weeks longer than
LASIK.
Visiting a Qualified Ophthalmologist
Performing LASIK on a patient that is
better suited for a procedure like PRK will increase the likelihood of
potential risks, such as poor night vision or less than optimal results. To
decrease these risks, visit a board-certified ophthalmologist who is skilled at
multiple vision correction procedures. This will ensure you the best possible
chances to achieve the vision results you are seeking.
BACKGROUND
Kenneth Lipstock, MD, founder of
Lipstock Laser and Cataract Center, is Richmond Virginia's leading provider of
LASIK laser vision correction and an accomplished cataract surgeon. He is one
of the only surgeons in Central Virginia to routinely perform the most advanced
technique known as No Needle -- No Stitch -- No Patch Cataract Surgery for
added patient safety and convenience.
Lipstock Laser and Cataract Center - 3701 Westerre Parkway,
Ste A Richmond, VA 23233 - (804)
288-1543
Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteMajority of patients these days opt for Lasik surgery over PRK for simple reasons that Lasik is less painful and do not cause discomfort after surgery, and fast vision recovery is the other reason why people go for it.After PRK surgery, majority of patients experience irritation which can be significantly discomforting for some patients. As aforementioned, patients who undergo Lasik report rapid visual stabilization and recovery which is a lot faster than PRK. In most cases recovery period after Lasik can be 1-2 days before they can start seeing normally, but with PRK waiting period can be a week or more. Expert is the only one who can correctly guide you in difference of Lasik vs PRK. San Diego ophthalmologist and refractive surgeon Michael Tracy, MD specializes in both LASIK and PRK. He will guide you through the differences between LASIK and PRK and will recommend the best procedure for you.