OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q:

What is the difference between LASIK and PRK A: and which is better? LASIK and PRK are both outpatient refractive procedures that can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. The main difference is how each procedure is performed.

With LASIK, a corneal flap is created. The flap is lifted and an excimer laser reshapes the cornea and the flap is put back in place where it heals in its original position. The day after LASIK, you should experience significantly improved vision with continued improvement over the next few days. LASIK usually has minor post-op discomfort often eliminated with artificial tears.

With PRK, no flap is created but a central area of the epithelium is removed. As with LASIK, the excimer laser reshapes the cornea. After PRK, the epithelial cells regenerate to cover the treatment area in about 3-7 days. Typically a bandage contact lens placed over the eye after PRK to help with healing process and is removed a few days later. Visual recovery after PRK takes about a week for vision to improve and from 1 to 4 weeks to reach maximum sharpness.

To determine which procedure is best for you, it is necessary to have a thorough evaluation by an eye surgeon. Generally, LASIK is ideal for patients who have thick corneas and require faster results and PRK is safer for people with thin corneal tissue or other corneal concerns. After the evaluation, your doctor can then determine the best procedure for you based on your individual eyes.

Gregory Eippert, MD 8140 Norton Parkway Mentor, OH 44060

440-255-1115 www.opivision.com