What kinds of vision problems can be corrected by LASIK surgery and PRK surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are two types of refractive surgeries used to correct vision problems by reshaping the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye.
LASIK and PRK can both correct:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Difficulty seeing nearby objects clearly.
- Astigmatism: An uneven curvature of the cornea that causes blurred or distorted vision.
LASIK is typically preferred over PRK for:
- People with thin corneas: PRK may weaken the cornea too much, increasing the risk of complications.
- People with dry eyes: PRK can cause dry eye symptoms that may persist for several months.
- People who participate in contact sports: LASIK creates a flap that can be dislodged during physical activities.
PRK is typically preferred over LASIK for:
- People with larger pupils: LASIK may increase the risk of glare or halos around lights at night, especially for people with large pupils.
- People with corneal scarring: PRK can be performed without creating a flap, which may be necessary for people with corneal scarring.
Both LASIK and PRK are effective and safe procedures, but individual results may vary. It's important to consult with an eye doctor to determine which procedure is best for your specific needs and to discuss the risks and benefits involved.