Prk Lasik Eye Surgery Explained: Is It The Right Option For You?

By Author: Michael Furlong
Total Articles: 8
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PRK LASIK eye surgery is one of the oldest forms of laser vision correction and continues to be a trusted alternative for patients who may not be suitable candidates for traditional LASIK. PRK, which stands for photorefractive keratectomy, shares many similarities with LASIK in terms of goals and outcomes but differs in its method and recovery process.

Both PRK and LASIK aim to correct common refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. These conditions occur when light does not focus properly on the retina, leading to blurry or distorted vision. By reshaping the cornea using an excimer laser, PRK improves the eye's ability to focus light correctly.

What sets PRK apart from LASIK is how the surgeon accesses the corneal tissue. In LASIK, a thin flap is created in the cornea to allow the laser to reshape the underlying layers. In PRK, instead of creating a flap, the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is gently removed, and the laser is applied directly to the surface. The epithelium then regenerates over the course of a few days.

PRK is especially ...
... suitable for individuals with thin or irregular corneas where flap-based LASIK might not be safe. Because it does not involve cutting a flap, there is no risk of flap-related complications, making it a safer choice for some patients involved in contact sports or activities that increase the risk of eye trauma.

The procedure itself is quick and painless, typically taking only a few minutes per eye. Patients are given numbing drops to ensure comfort, and although they may feel pressure during the surgery, there should be no pain. Once the laser reshaping is complete, a soft contact lens is placed over the eye to act as a bandage during the initial healing phase.

Recovery from PRK is longer compared to LASIK. While LASIK patients often experience clear vision within a day or two, PRK patients may take several days or even weeks to achieve optimal results. This is because the epithelium needs time to regenerate and settle, during which vision may fluctuate and the eyes may feel dry or irritated.

Despite the longer recovery period, the long-term visual outcomes of PRK are comparable to LASIK. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after full healing. The results are permanent, although natural age-related changes in vision may still occur over time, such as presbyopia in later years.

During the recovery process, patients are typically advised to rest their eyes, avoid bright lights, and refrain from driving or strenuous activity for a few days. Prescription eye drops are used to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Some people may find the idea of a longer healing time inconvenient, especially if they need to return to work quickly or have demanding schedules. However, those who prioritise safety or have certain corneal conditions may find PRK to be the more appropriate choice, even with the longer recovery.

Another benefit of PRK is that it leaves more corneal tissue untouched, which can be advantageous for patients with higher prescriptions or thinner corneas. Surgeons may also recommend PRK for individuals who have previously had certain types of eye surgery or who are experiencing dry eye symptoms.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved. These can include temporary glare, halos around lights, or dry eyes. In rare cases, there may be under-correction, over-correction, or infection. A comprehensive pre-operative assessment helps minimise these risks and ensures the treatment is suitable for each individual.

Cost-wise, PRK is usually similar in price to LASIK. The total cost will depend on factors such as the clinic’s location, the surgeon’s experience, and whether advanced technologies are used. It's important to clarify what is included in the cost, such as follow-up care, medications, or potential enhancement procedures.

Some clinics offer payment plans to make PRK more accessible. Patients should always ensure they understand the terms, interest rates, and what the plan covers before making any financial commitment. It's also helpful to compare quotes and read reviews to ensure high standards of care.

Deciding whether PRK is right for you involves understanding your eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals. An eye care professional will carry out a full assessment to determine your eligibility and help you weigh the pros and cons of the procedure in your specific case.

Ultimately, PRK is a safe and effective option for many people looking to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses. By offering a flap-free alternative to LASIK, it opens the door to laser vision correction for individuals who might otherwise be unsuitable. With realistic expectations and proper care, PRK can lead to life-changing improvements in visual clarity and comfort.

About Us:

Furlong Vision Correction is dedicated to transforming lives through exceptional eye care and advanced vision correction technologies. Based in San Jose, California, and led by Dr. Michael Furlong, the clinic offers a range of procedures including LASIK, PRK, and cataract surgery. With over 26 years of operation, Furlong Vision prides itself on being a locally and family-owned business, bringing together a team with over 128 years of collective experience in eye care. Committed to affordability and cutting-edge solutions, they strive to provide personalized care and the best possible outcomes for their patients. For more details visit us at https://furlongvision.com.