One of the most prevalent but correctable causes of vision problems in the United States is refractive errors. If you are one of the 50 percent of all American adults who doesn’t have an optimal vision because of this problem, you must have considered undergoing refractive surgery. Are you wondering which modern method may be best for you? Here are the top advantages of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) over laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses (LASIK).

PRK vs. LASIK

Both PRK and LASIK are laser eye surgery techniques that eye doctors use to correct vision by modifying the cornea. Either can resolve vision problems associated with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK has been around longer, but both methods are still widely used today.

Each technique varies in its approach in reshaping the corneal tissue to improve vision. PRK involves the complete removal of the epithelium, which is the top layer of the cornea. Your eye surgeon then uses lasers to reshape the other corneal layers and fix any irregularities in its curvature. On the other hand, LASIK uses lasers or a tiny blade to create a small flap into the epithelium. Your eye surgeon will raise the layer and move it to the side to create an opening to the tissues underneath. They will use lasers to reshape the cornea. Once the surgery is complete, they will put the flap back in place to close it. Your cornea then heals itself with the rest of the tissues over the next few months.

Why PRK May Be a Better Choice for You

It’s a Safer Option for People Engaged in High-Impact Activities

Eye trauma can dislodge the flap created from LASIK. This is a severe complication. So, if you are an athlete or military personnel, your eye doctor will likely recommend PRK.

It’s More Suitable for Patients with Thin Corneas

Since LASIK involves creating a flap, the procedure requires patients to have thicker corneal tissue. If you have thin corneas, you may receive PRK instead.

It’s More Suitable for Those Who Require Higher Prescriptions

The higher your prescription is, the more corneal tissue your eye surgeon will have to remove. So, if you have thin corneas and need a significant amount of correction, a PRK will be a better option. PRK is often used to correct up to -7.00 diopters (D) for nearsighted people. It can also correct up to +4.00 D for farsighted ones.

It Causes Fewer Dry Eye Symptoms

The flap creation during LASIK can increase your risk or worsen your dry eye. Researchers believe that the surgery may cause some nerve damage to the cornea when the eye surgeon removes some of the corneal tissues. Another potential cause is inflammation from LASIK. It’s also likely that the new shape of your cornea can impact the way your eyelid interacts with the eye surface. This may affect tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

Do you want to discuss all of the available laser correction procedures with a qualified eye surgeon? At Laser Vision Delaware, we can help ensure you find the right technique for you.

Learn more about the benefits of PRK vs Lasik, contact Laser Vision Delaware in Wilmington, Delaware at (302) 656-2020 to schedule an appointment.