There are two types of surgery in laser eye treatment; PRK(photorefractive keratectomy) and LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis). The former is a procedure that directs laser into the surface of the cornea and therefore does not cut its tissues. Patients with thin corneas are very suitable for this procedure. The latter procedure involves creating a flap in the corneal tissues. The laser is applied beneath the flap, thus the cornea is not directly treated but it is folded back.

Both laser eye surgery procedures have similarities and differences. Patients therefore are divided which one to choose between PRK vs LASIK. Each procedure has different advocates. While both do not require needles and incision, there are those who prefer PRK because they have uneasy feeling towards the creation of flaps which is the core of LASIK procedure. In case that flaps are created inappropriately, a minor adjustment is necessary. While LASIK has this extra procedure, its advocates stressed the fact that PRK is more discomforting because it has longer recuperation time, and is not recommended to patients who engaged in active sports such as boxing and swimming.

PRK advocates argued that this procedure is more advantageous, since it can be performed to patients who are suitable to undergo LASIK procedure, such as those with corneal conditions and scars. Moreover, PRK fans are very proud to admit that this procedure has been in existence longer than LASIK thus doctors are too willing to perform it. PRK has been around as early as 1980 while the first patent of LASIK was in 1989. LASIK may be young compared with PRK, however, it is less painful procedure and eyes can be done at the same time, and vision is quickly restored and offers little discomfort after the procedure. Both offer the same vision results, the use of contact lenses as defense procedure after operation will not gain more advocates for PRK

In terms of cost, both procedures really do not vary. PRK is less expensive though than LASIK because the procedure is really simple and complications are not so serious and are easy to handle. However, LASIK advocates will point out that generally the other procedure is not covered by insurance.

There is only one way to decide which procedure is better between PRK vs LASIK. Asks your doctor’s opinions and suggestions, the decision belongs to them. Your medical tests and records will also come in handy in determining which of the two works best for you. You can also consider other factor such as time and place of the procedure. Which procedure you choose is not really of great importance, what is important is that both offer the results.