Authored by: OCC LASIK
You finally have made the decision to have LASIK after many years of research and hearing friends rave about their results. You understand the risks, you know about the amazingly quick recovery time, and you are prepared to finally take the plunge into better vision. But when all the testing is complete and it is confirmed that you are a candidate for laser vision correction, all of a sudden you are thrown a curve – Why did the doctor recommend PRK and not LASIK? Don’t panic or suddenly lose your nerve. There is a very good reason!
Understanding PRK
PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy, and it was the predecessor to LASIK laser vision correction. It will correct myopia or nearsightedness, hyperopia or farsightedness and astigmatism just the same as the LASIK procedure.
- The first difference between these two procedures is how the surgeon accesses the inner cornea. With PRK, the entire outer layer or epithelium is removed, whereas with LASIK a flap is created to expose the inner cornea. The exposed cornea is then reshaped with the laser to correct the refractive error. It is a simple and non-invasive procedure. The most important thing to remember is that the visual results of both PRK and LASIK surgeries is the same clear vision.
- The second difference is the amount of time it takes to heal. It takes longer for the cornea to heal with PRK because you must wait for the epithelial cells to regenerate. It is similar to a scraped knee that must heal. PRK is a common procedure and offers real advantages for certain patients who cannot have LASIK.
Why PRK?
The doctors at OCC LASIK are passionate about your vision, and nothing is more important to them than attaining the best vision possible for you. As Dr. Ali and Dr. Armogan are experienced and knowledgeable in all types of eye surgery and ophthalmology, they will only recommend the procedure that will give YOU the crystal clear vision you desire.
After they perform a very thorough examination and take a number of measurements, they will decide which procedure is best for you and your eyes. They will only recommend the procedure that is safe for you and will result in your best vision possible.
Some patients make better PRK candidates:
- If your cornea is too thin to safely make a flap as in LASIK
- If you suffer from certain dry eye conditions
- If you have a prescription that is too high for LASIK
Your doctor will discuss your options and thoroughly explain his recommendations so you are completely comfortable with the decision.
Good, Better, or Best?
Regardless of which procedure you have performed at OCC LASIK, you can be confident they will be using the same superior technology to achieve your best vision. When choosing between good, better, or best vision, always choose the best – the professionals at OCC LASIK.
Contact us today to find out more about PRK and LASIK, and to discover which option is best for you!