Wearing glasses or contact lenses can become tiresome and expensive, particularly if you have needed prescription eyewear for some time. Both can also be inconvenient, making it difficult for you to participate in certain enjoyable activities and have clarity of vision – for example, swimming.
Laser vision correction is undoubtedly the best way to permanently correct your refractive eye error so that you no longer need to rely on prescription lenses to see clearly. And PRK is the original and arguably most effective form of laser vision correction.
PRK or photorefractive keratectomy can be successfully used to correct the vision of patients suffering from myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism. This treatment uses a laser to remove the entire epithelium, which is the outer layer of tissue covering the cornea so that the underlying corneal shape can be altered. By making the cornea more evenly domed, light entering the patient’s eyes can be refracted more accurately onto the retina, making their vision clearer.
PRK is a little different from LASIK, which relies on a flap being created into the epithelium through which the cornea can be reshaped. However, since flap-related complications can occur – such as debris becoming trapped under the flap, the flap wrinkling or not healing properly – many experts agree that PRK is a safer and preferred option for correcting refractive eye conditions.
PRK laser vision correction is without doubt a brilliant investment in your long-term vision. However, the actual cost can seem daunting when faced with paying for the procedure. The good news is that there are a variety of payment options available, not least the option to use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) to cover the cost.
One of the biggest misconceptions that people have is that their PRK procedure won’t be covered by HSA or FSA since they believe their laser vision correction surgery to be purely elective. Nevertheless, HSAs and FSAs are a popular way to reduce the cost of your PRK surgery.
If you are considering PRK surgery and you would like to use your HSA or FSA funds to cover part or all of your treatment, the best thing to do is to book a consultation with our expert eye care team. Not only will they be able to advise you whether you are a suitable candidate for PRK laser vision correction, but they will be able to let you know the costs and fees associated with the treatment, and tell you whether you will be able to make your procedure more affordable using HSA?FSA dollars.
To find out more about PRK or paying for PRK with HSA or FSA tax-free dollars, please get in touch with our offices today where our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help.