Vision Correction Surgery

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) was the first ever form of Laser Vision Correction. It is used to correct nearsightedness and farsightedness as well as astigmatism and has had a large impact on the more recent forms of Laser Vision Correction.

It was really the starting point of Laser Eye Surgery.

 

LASIK (from laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is one of the newer forms of Laser Vision Corrective surgery. 

In this procedure a surgical blade is used to create an incision in the eye to create a flap.

This flap then allows the laser access to reshape the cornea.

The flap is then replaced over the eye.

Additionally, patients with thin corneas and dry eyes, in most cases, are not candidates for Lasik because of the fact that a flap must be created.

 

LASEK (Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy) is a painless, advanced technique designed to reduce discomfort, it is often referred to as the more modern version of PRK.

 

In this procedure there is an alcohol based solution applied to the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelial layer) which causes that layer to loosen. The outer layer is then lightly brushed and moved aside which gives the laser access to the cornea in order to reshape it. Once that is complete the outer layer may be put back into place and a protective contact lens is placed over it. This lens stays on for the next few days while the epithelial layer heals and reattaches.

 

Additionally those that are not a candidate for Lasik due to thickness of their corneas or dry eyes are likely to be candidates for Lasek.