LASIK and PRK: Discovering your Best Option

Lasik Eye Surgery Ocala, FL With so many eye procedures available today, it can be difficult to know what path to follow to achieve your desired outcome – better vision. At Central Florida Eye Institute, we take a great deal of pride in performing a comprehensive consultation and examination for each patient. From a place of full understanding of eye health and patient preferences, we can discuss potential treatment options.

One of the most popular vision-improving treatments today is the LASIK procedure. Because so many people have heard of it, there is a perception that LASIK is “the way to go” if you want to see more clearly. That’s not always true. Here, we look at both LASIK and PRK to help you differentiate between the two.

  • LASIK is a procedure in which a laser device is used to make a small flap in the cornea, the clear, front surface of the eye. Through this flap, the underlying cornea is reshaped in order to better lead light through the eye to the retina.
  • PRK also a cornea-reshaping eye surgery. During this procedure, though, the refinement of the cornea is performed directly after the outermost layer of corneal tissue is removed. A new layer of epithelium cells grows back following surgery.

Both LASIK and PRK achieve the same basic goal, a finer-tuned cornea. Where the two procedures differ is in technique.

Who is a good candidate for LASIK or PRK?

Each of these procedures may be advisable for individuals who want to correct hyperopia or myopia (farsightedness or nearsightedness. LASIK and PRK are also both routinely performed to correct astigmatism. Where PRK may be more appropriate is in cases where a patient has a thinner cornea, as this may affect the creation of the necessary surgical flap. PRK is also considered when other factors, such as a flat corneal surface, are present. Results from LASIK and PRK are similar. However, recovery time is slightly longer after PRK due to the regrowth of new cells over the cornea.

Ultimately, you and your eye doctor will be able to determine the best course of action for better vision after a thorough conversation about expectations. To learn more about LASIK and PRK, call our Ocala office at (352) 237-8400.

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