PRK |
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LASIK |
PRK involves removal of the superficial tisse on the surface of the cornea and the laser reshapes it to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. |
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LASIK is a more complex 3-step procedure:
- The creation of a flap that is peeled to the side (like an orange peel),
- The laser removes tissue on the exposed surface,
- The flap is rolled back into position.
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Advantages:
- Simple technique – very little surgical risk.
- No longterm flap risk – a consideration for certain situations (such as martial arts, construction, law enforcement, and dry eye syndrome)
- Surgery happens on the top, superficial layer of the cornea, making it generally safer.
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Advantages:
- FAST, virtually painless recovery
- Less chance of scarring or corneal erosion (like a scratch) compared to PRK
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Disadvantages:
- Slower recover than LASIK – most people take one week off work; full vision recovery can take weeks/months for some.
- Potentially more discomfort in first few days.
- “Corneal haze” in some cases (much less likely with current techniques compared with earlier procedures).
- Small risk of recurrent corneal erosion (like a scratch on the eye)
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Disadvantages:
- Potential for flap complications
- Tissue is removed deeper in the cornea causing a weaker structure compared with PRK
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