Wednesday, January 7, 2009

PRK vs LASIK - The Differences and Similarities

By Tom Peters

LASIK is not an uncommon term to us. You should have heard the way it can give us a 20/20 eyesight. The interesting is, very few of us have heard of the term Photorefractive Keratectomy, also known as PRK. PRK is also a very well-practiced laser eye sugery that has been achieve the same success as LASIK for more than 20 years.

With that mind, we will compare PRK vs LASIK. We will look at the various similiarities and the differences. At the end, you will need to know how to determine the best procedure for you. This information here will equip you with the good facts so that you can consult the eye surgeon with better understanding.

The similarities between PRK and LASIK:

1) There is no pain during the entire process

2) Both require medication for the eyes for a few days after the surgery

3) Both require some months of recovery from the surgery

4) Both can be used to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism

The interesting thing is that both processes have almost the same results in getting the 20/20 eyesight. Many people have achieve success with either PRK or LASIK.

However, The interesting thing is that both have different procedures, but the same results.

Here are some differences:

1) Patients with certain corneal conditions or corneal scars have to go for PRK, LASIK is not recommended

2) You need to wear a lens "bandage" for a few days

3) LASIK has an additional step which involves the creation of a flap

4) PRK does not create a flap, but accesses the cornea's inner layers by removing the thin outer layer of the cornea

5) PRK tends to have longer healing process than LASIK

As you can see, there are some differences but in general both processes are safe. To determine which procedure is more suitable for you, it is best to consult a well-known eye surgeon who is able to examine your eyes to decide what is best for you. With this article as your knowledge, you should be able to speak with an eye surgeon better. - 15252

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