Is LASIK or PRK right for you?
Deciding if LASIK or PRK is Right for You
Making the decision to have vision correction surgery is a big step, one that can lead to a life with greater freedom from glasses and contacts. It’s natural to have questions or even feel a little nervous, but rest assured, you’re not alone. Whether you’re exploring LASIK or PRK, we’re here to help you understand your options and feel confident about your decision.
Our advanced technology and experienced team ensure you receive personalized care from start to finish. Ready to see what might be right for you? Start with our quick self-test.
What is LASIK
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery that treats vision problems caused by refractive errors conditions where the eye doesn’t bend light correctly. For clear vision, light must travel through the cornea and lens and land precisely on the retina. When the shape of the cornea or lens prevents this from happening, vision becomes blurry.
During LASIK, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea. A laser then reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to improve the way light is focused on the retina. LASIK can correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
How LASIK Works
- A flap is created on the cornea using a laser.
- The cornea is reshaped with a second laser.
- The flap is repositioned to act as a natural bandage.
Recovery and Benefits
- Quick visual improvement, often within 24 hours
- Minimal discomfort due to the corneal flap acting as a natural bandage.
- Quick recovery, with most patients experiencing improved vision within 24 hours.
- A good option for individuals with healthy, normally thick corneas
The goal of LASIK is to reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
What is PRK
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is another form of laser vision correction designed to treat the same refractive errors as LASIK. The key difference is that PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the laser is applied directly to the surface of the eye after gently removing the outer corneal layer (the epithelium). This layer naturally regenerates during healing.
How PRK Works
- The epithelium is removed.
- The corneal tissue is reshaped with a laser.
- The epithelium heals and regrows over several days.
Recovery and Benefits
- Longer healing time compared to LASIK. Typically taking several days to a few weeks for functional vision.
- More initial discomfort compared to LASIK, as the epithelium takes time to heal.
- Suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas
- No risk of flap-related complications
- Often recommended for patients with high-impact lifestyles or a history of eye trauma
- A great alternative if LASIK isn’t an option for you
Even though recovery takes longer, PRK provides the same long-term clarity and life-changing results as LASIK.
If You’re Not a Candidate for LASIK, PRK May Still Be an Option
If you’ve been told LASIK may not be the best fit for you, don’t worry PRK may still be an excellent choice. Many people who are not eligible for LASIK achieve outstanding vision with PRK. It’s especially well suited for those who:
- Have thin or irregular corneas
- Experience chronic dry eye
- Participate in high-impact sports or activities
- Have had previous eye surgery or mild corneal scarring
- Have measurements that fall outside LASIK’s safety parameters
PRK offers a safe alternative with the same long-term visual results, making it an ideal option for many patients who once thought laser vision correction wasn’t possible.
Why Someone May Qualify for PRK but Not LASIK
There are several reasons your surgeon may recommend PRK over LASIK:
- Thin corneas:
LASIK requires a certain corneal thickness to safely create the flap. PRK avoids the flap entirely, making it safer for thin corneas. - Irregular corneal surface:
If your cornea’s shape makes flap creation risky, PRK is often the better choice. - Chronic dryness:
Because LASIK can temporarily worsen dryness, PRK may be more comfortable for patients who already struggle with dry eyes. - High-impact lifestyle:
Athletes, military personnel, and others exposed to potential eye trauma often choose PRK to eliminate flap-related risk. - Previous eye surgery or mild scarring:
Certain corneal changes may restrict LASIK eligibility, while PRK remains a safe and effective option. - Borderline LASIK measurements:
If your eye measurements fall close to LASIK’s safety limits, PRK may be recommended to protect long-term eye health.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
To be considered for LASIK or PRK, several factors are evaluated during your consultation.
You may be a candidate if:
- You are at least 18 years old (ideally 21+).
- Your vision prescription has been stable for a year.
- Your refractive error falls within treatable ranges.
- Your corneas are healthy and an appropriate thickness.
- Your overall eye health is good.
- You have realistic expectations about outcomes.
Some conditions may make LASIK or PRK unsuitable, including:
- Unstable prescriptions
- Severe dry eye
- Very thin corneas
- Corneal disease, abrasions, or keratoconus
- Advanced glaucoma
- Visually significant cataracts
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Recent eye infections
- Pregnancy or nursing
During your consultation, we will perform a dilated eye examination, measure your corneas, check your pupils, and evaluate your prescription to determine the safest and most effective option. This should take about two hours.
Factors to Consider
- Suitability:
LASIK is often recommended for individuals with thicker corneas and mild to moderate refractive errors. PRK may be ideal if your corneas are thinner or if flap complications pose a risk. - Healing Time:
LASIK offers rapid recovery, sometimes within hours. PRK recovery takes longer, with vision gradually improving over several weeks. - Lifestyle:
For people regularly exposed to physical contact or potential eye injury, PRK may be recommended due to the absence of a corneal flap. - Long-Term Results:
Both LASIK and PRK deliver excellent long-term outcomes. Healing times differ, but final visual results are comparable.
Take the First Step Toward Clear Vision
Your vision journey begins with a conversation. Schedule a consultation with our team to learn which option is right for you and take the first step toward clearer, more confident living.