LASIK VS PRK

For myopia patients there are two types of surgeries available for them and to get rid off spectacles or contact lenses. These are known as LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy).
But the treatment depends upon the condition of your problem and what your Ophthalmologist advices you. You should take decision of LASIK vs PRK after examining your eyes. LASIK vs PRK can treat both astigmatism and hypermetropia.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
In this surgery excimer laser is used to shape the front of cornea. The corneal epithelium is carefully removed otherwise known as the surface of the eye. This layer can easily regenerate itself over the course of a couple of days and newly exposed surface, stroma, is then bombarded by laser pulses that are controlled by a computer. In this process ten per cent of the cornea is changed.

 LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis)
While in PRK surgery, the excimer laser is used to change the shape of cornea. So no epithelial cells are damaged as it is carried out underneath a thin flap in the cornea. The surgeon uses a specialized medical instrument called a microkeratome to create a small flap which is still attached by an area of tissue. The flap can be carefully lifted exposing the corneal stroma for treatment. The laser can then be positioned to shoot pulses at the exposed stroma. This process takes one minute and the flap that was created with the microkeratome that can easily be positioned back in place.

There are many differences between the two processes. LASIK treatments that are used for myopia in comparison to use of PRK treatment, the improvement is generally faster. Because the epithelial cells do not get damaged so many eye surgeons will suggest the LASIK procedure over PRK, especially when there is a concern of recovery time. 

It is believed that PRK surgery is very safe and effective. It is good for those who have very thin cornea or corneal scars or others irregularities. So you should not be afraid because each year many people are undergoing PRK surgery without any difficulty and are thankful to it for not wearing spectacles or lenses. So you must consult your doctor before deciding between LASIK and PRK.