What is the difference between LASIK and PRK laser eye surgery?

20 Nov 2014

laser-eye-surgery-journey_04
 
When undergoing laser eye surgery, more often than not the perception is that there is just one type of surgical procedure, and that this same single method is used across the board for each and every individual patient. This is not actually the case, however, as there are in fact two alternative treatment options which we offer here at Optilase Dublin; one is called PRK (also commonly referred to as LASEK), the other is LASIK. But what exactly is the difference, you may ask- and why are there even different laser surgery options at all?
 
In truth, the two treatments are quite closely aligned but there is always a good reason why our Optometrist will opt for one procedural method over the other. It is not a case of offering a choice to the patient, but rather a decision that is taken by our Optometrist, based on the results of an initial consultation which we provide free of charge, ensuring that the correct, most suitable laser surgery option is given to each individual who presents to Optilase; remember, each and every person represents a different challenge as no two pairs of eyes are completely identical!
 
Based on the condition of the cornea in the eye (some are thinner than others), our Optometrist will then be able to see exactly what way the inner part of the cornea must be accessed in each individual case; this in turn will determine whether the LASIK or PRK treatment is the best option for the patient in question.
 

LASIK

The LASIK procedure is the most common procedure performed worldwide, accounting for around 7 times more procedures than PRK. During this procedure, a thin layer of the cornea is lifted to create a flap, using blade-free Intra Lase Technology. The laser is then applied to the underlying surface to reshape the cornea, correcting the patient’s prescription. The flap is then simply replaced into exactly the same position as before, and the procedure is complete.
 
The main features of the LASIK method are:
 

  • A very rapid recovery time, with a full recovery usually achieved within 48 hours
  • Little or no post-operative discomfort
  • 20/20 vision

 

PRK

The PRK procedure may be the preferred laser treatment option for a patient with a very steep or very thin cornea, making it difficult for the surgeon to make a proper flap, as is the case with LASIK.
 
Instead, during the LASEK/PRK procedure the surgeon simply loosens the outer layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium, using an Ethanol solution and moves it to one side. He then applies a laser to the underlying surface in order to reshape the cornea, eliminating the patient’s prescription in the process. Following this, a special protective contact lens (fulfilling the function of a bandage) is placed over the cornea for a period of 5 days.
 
The main features of the LASEK/PRK method are:

 

  • Generally the preferred treatment for people with thinner corneas
  • Often recommended for those that partake in contact sport
  • 20/20 vision
  • Slightly longer recovery time (5-7 days)

 
To find out if you are a suitable candidate for this life-changing procedure contact Optilase today on +353 1 223 8821 or fill out the green contact form above right. See the Difference with Optilase!
 

Article written by Alan Shanley

 
 

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Holli Burgon
September 18, 2023

I could not rate high enough, consultation was extremely informative and the staff were amazing, very friendly and answered all my questions with ease.

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Roisin Byrne
September 15, 2023

I had a wonderful experience in Optilase in Ely Place, the staff were so kind and helpful and made me feel really comfortable. Would absolutely recommend

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PAULA Moriarty
September 7, 2023

Couldn't rate Optilase high enough. I had Lens Replacement Surgery. My experience from the first phone call to the procedure itself and the aftercare was fantastic. All of the staff from the call centre to the staff in Carrickmines and the theatre were so helpful and friendly. Would definitely recommend .

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JeriesHamaty
September 5, 2023

I had my PRK done on both eyes , and im happy with the result. The post operation pain was extreme but it settled down after 4 days. Now i feel great after 2 weeks post operation no complications what so ever , other than blurry vision now and then, but its improving every day

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Rebekah Lowry
August 25, 2023

Got LASIK in Ely Place only yesterday and officially had 20/20 vision just 24 hours later! Cannot recommend Optilase enough from my initial consultation with Aisling in Athlone to my trips to Carrickmines and Ely Place. The staff really look after you from the moment you walk in the door and make you feel so at ease from start to finish - 10 out of 10 experience!

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Kate Oto
August 21, 2023

I highly recommend this place, reliable information and care, full professionalism.

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Lisa Simcox
August 21, 2023

LASIK was so easy and pain free. It’s one week post surgery and my eye sight is wonderful. I couldn’t recommend enough.

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Declan Wynne
August 21, 2023

I no longer need glasses,absolutely life changing.Great aftercare,lovely staff.

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Poliana Oliveira
August 9, 2023

I have been wearing glasses for over 20 years. I always hated wearing contact lenses and I got to a time in my life that I needed a change. A friend recommended optilase, I went for the free consultation and the person that did all the exams was really nice and I felt safe and confident enough to go ahead, I was recommended the PRK. I Put on a piece of paper how much I spent and would still spend on glasses for the next 10 years, and the surgery was for sure cheaper than that. My prescription was very high, both eyes, myopia and astigmatism Optilase provided all the information I needed, in clear manner. And they always made clear that there was nothing wrong with my eyes, it was my own choice to go for the surgery. The day of the surgery I was a bit nervous, who wouldn't? But then, from the reception to the surgeon, they were all so nice and welcoming. Hernandez performed the procedure, lovely surgeon, again all information was provided the way it should. I was instructed in what I should and should not do. The actual procedure took less than 15min, I felt nothing, no discomfort or anything. The whole process is very well done by the team, if I remember well around 3 people supporting the surgery plus one other girl providing pos surgery instructions. Right after the procedure I could already see much better than before without glasses! I couldn't believe it, I cried, thanked everyone and left the clinic knowing that I made the best choice. The recovery for PRK is a bit longer, I stayed for 2 full days no phones, or any screens. In the dark. If you have a little one, I would recommend to have someone minding them, as you are very limited in what you can do for the day of and day after surgery. It is hard to open the eyes, the second day after surgery was the toughest, I thought all went wrong as the vision got worst, but again I was advised it could happen. Note that this was my experience and could be different for other people. The 3rd day I felt nothing and could see much better already. Light sensitivity was very high, and still, 6 days after surgery, but nothing that a sun glasses would not help. My vision still blurred, but I need no glasses to see, my eyes feel dry sometimes, but the eye drops provided helps with it and and am very happy with the results already, even knowing it takes a bit longer to fully recover the vision. I'm back to work (screen at 200% to make sure I dont force my eyes too much) and I have had no headaches or anything, which I would have all the time looking at screens for most of my day. I cannot recommend Optilase enough, they are amazing! If you want to do something for your self and want a place you can trust, go for it, choose Optilase. Thanks to the whole team for one of the best things I did for my self!

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damien mcandrew
August 9, 2023

Great experience all tound from start to finish. Every step explained in great detail. Eyesight was better than 20/20 the next day. Would highly recommend using optilase for laser eye surgery

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Eve Murphy
August 9, 2023

Surgeon was great! Talked me through everything as the surgery was happening. Bit of discomfort during surgery and very painful for 2-3 hrs after but put more drops in and took a nap and then completely fine after. Colette for my consultation and post op was so friendly and helpful. Overall, great experience.

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Josman Ibarra
August 3, 2023

I highly recommend Optilase for laser eye surgery. The process from the initial consultation to the post surgery check ups was quite smooth and professional. The staff working at the clinic was very knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. The surgery was over in minutes and I didn't feel any pain. The doctor kept an open communication with me during the surgery what made a big difference.

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