PRK Vs. LASIK Differences, Benefits, Drawbacks, and Expectations

One of the most well-known procedures for correcting vision is LASIK eye surgery. It is well renowned for assisting millions of people in lowering or doing away with their need for glasses and contact lenses. We have already gone over LASIK in great depth, including its advantages, process, and recuperation. 

But another very successful laser procedure that came before LASIK, which gained popularity in the 1990s, is PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), which was created in the 1980s. Though their methods, recuperation times, and suitability for particular individuals vary, both procedures provide substantial advantages for those looking for better vision.

LASIK and PRK: What Are They?

In PRK Vs. Lasik refractive operations like PRK laser eye surgery and LASIK aim to enhance the way light enters and reaches the retina by reshaping the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye. As a result, the requirement for glasses or contact lenses is reduced or eliminated due to improved vision.

In order to allow the laser to restructure the underlying tissue, a tiny flap is created on the cornea and lifted during LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis). After that, the flap is moved, which promotes less discomfort and faster healing.

In contrast, PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) uses a laser to reshape the corneal tissue underneath the epithelium, which is the outermost layer of the cornea. when a result, no flap is required, and the outer layer regenerates on its own when the wound heals.

Important Distinctions Between LASIK and PRK

Knowing the distinctions between PRK and LASIK eye surgery will assist you in selecting the procedure that is best for you.

Method of Surgery

PRK: Using a laser, the outer layer of the cornea is removed, and the tissue underneath is reshaped. There is no chance of flap-related issues because no flap is made.

LASIK: The cornea’s underlying tissue can be altered by creating a flap. The flap is moved following the laser therapy.

Time Spent Recuperated

PRK: Recovery is longer, and it takes weeks for the vision to stabilize. The first healing phase is more uncomfortable for patients.

LASIK: Shorter recovery period; improved eyesight is frequently attained in a matter of days. In general, there is less discomfort than with PRK.

Adequacy for Patients

PRK: Suggested for those who engage in contact sports or other activities that increase the risk of eye injuries, or for those with thinner corneas. Additionally, it is perfect for those who are not good candidates for LASIK.

LASIK: Ideal for those seeking a quicker recovery and those with thicker corneas.

Comfort Level 

PRK: More discomfort during the early stages of recovery, with some patients experiencing light sensitivity or transient haze.

LASIK: Faster vision stabilization and less post-operative discomfort.

PRK Benefits and Drawbacks

Let us compare the benefits and drawbacks of LASIK and PRK laser eye surgery.

PRK’s advantages

1. No flap issues: There is no chance of flap displacement complications because no flap was made during PRK.
2. Perfect for thinner corneas: PRK can still produce great outcomes if your cornea is thinner than it would be with LASIK.
3. Stable long-term outcomes: For long-term vision correction, PRK can provide stable outcomes, particularly for people in high-risk professions.

PRK’s drawbacks

1. Longer recovery: Compared to LASIK, PRK takes longer to recover from, and vision progressively gets better over weeks.
2. Initial discomfort: Pain, light sensitivity, and a prolonged time of blurred vision are common symptoms for patients.
3. Vision improvement takes longer: People who desire quicker results may find that the full effects of vision correction take longer to manifest.

Benefits of LASIK

1. Fast recovery: Many patients report improved vision within a day or two after LASIK, which gives a significantly quicker recovery period.
2. Minimal discomfort: Most patients experience very little discomfort following the operation, which is painless.
3. Well-researched and readily accessible: LASIK has been extensively investigated and is offered with great outcomes in the majority of eye centers.

Drawbacks of LASIK

• Complications associated with flaps: Making a flap in the cornea during LASIK can result in issues including infection or flap displacement.
• Dry eyes: Following LASIK, some individuals develop either short-term or long-term dry eye problems.
• Not appropriate for thin corneas: If you have a thin cornea, PRK can be a better alternative than LASIK.

What to anticipate both during and following the procedures

Here are some things to anticipate both during and following LASIK and PRK eye surgery.

Prior to Surgery

You will have a comprehensive eye exam prior to surgery to assess the condition of your eyes and choose the best course of action. Before the examination and procedure, patients are encouraged to refrain from wearing contact lenses. To avoid irritation or infection during the treatment, avoid using lotions, fragrances, and makeup.

While undergoing surgery

The average time for both operations is fifteen minutes each eye. To guarantee a painless encounter, numbing eye drops are applied. You will remain conscious throughout the entire procedure, which is carried out under local anesthesia.

PRK: A laser is used to remodel the cornea’s underlying tissue after removing the outer covering.

LASIK: To enable the laser to remodel the tissue underneath, a flap is made on the cornea and raised.

Following Surgery

A bandage contact lens is used for protection, and discomfort may last for a few days following PRK. Weeks may pass before full recovery occurs, and vision gradually gets better. With LASIK, there is little discomfort and the vision stabilizes in a few days. In order to promote healing and lessen dryness, eye drops are applied during both surgeries.

Who Makes a Good Applicant?

Candidates with PRK or LASIK should ideally:

• be older than eighteen, ideally twenty-one.
• Maintain a steady vision for a minimum of a year.
• Be free of diseases such as dry eye syndrome, cataracts, or glaucoma.
• possess corneas that are sufficiently thick for LASIK or that are thinner for PRK.
• You can choose the one that best suits your needs with the assistance of a skilled eye surgeon.

Long-Term Results and Upkeep

Long-lasting outcomes are provided by both PRK and LASIK eye surgery. To preserve their best eyesight, some patients could require augmentation surgery ten years or more later. To track any changes in vision and take care of problems early, it is critical to get regular eye exams.

Conclusion

Excellent vision correction is offered by PRK and LASIK, but in a fight between PRK Vs. Lasik which procedure is best for you will depend on your needs, lifestyle, and eye health. PRK is better for thin corneas or high-risk occupations, but LASIK is best for a speedy recovery.