LASIK is the most well-known vision correction procedure. But it is not the only option for people who want to stop using glasses or contact lenses.
LASIK is not suitable for every person. Some conditions and factors disqualify you from getting it.
Fortunately, LASIK is not the only vision correction procedure. Keep reading to learn what vision correction procedure you can undergo if you can’t get LASIK!
What is PRK?
Another laser vision correction procedure that ends your need for glasses is PRK. Like LASIK, PRK corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
PRK permanently changes the shape of your cornea to improve how it focuses light on your retina. Enhancing your corneas focusing ability gives you clearer vision.
If you are not a good candidate for LASIK, especially if you have thin corneas, PRK may be a good option for you. During PRK, your surgeon uses an excimer laser to reshape your cornea.
It is also an outpatient procedure that takes less than thirty minutes to complete. The advantage that PRK has over LASIK is that it does not create a flap with your epithelium.
LASIK makes a flap out of your epithelium, which is the outer layer of your cornea. This flap makes LASIK recovery quicker because the flap gets placed back over your eye at the end.
But, the flap creates the potential for more issues during your recovery. PRK removes your epithelium instead.
Removing it makes a more extended recovery period. But it eliminates the potential for complications with the flap.
What is PRK Recovery Like?
During the first few days after PRK, you may feel some discomfort. You also may experience blurry vision for a few days.
Your eye doctor will prescribe eye drops for you to use during this healing process. You can have an immediate improvement to your vision after PRK.
But it can take a month or more to experience your best eyesight. Once your vision is crisp enough to resume normal activities, you can go back to your daily life.
But you must be careful not to bump your eye or let it get infected. Your epithelium needs time to grow back as part of the healing process.
Is PRK Right For You?
Before undergoing any eye procedure, you must meet with your eye doctor. They will help you determine which vision correction procedure will suit your eyes.
During a vision correction consultation, they will review your medical and eye history with you. They will also go over your family medical history.
Reviewing these facts helps them determine if it is risky to correct your vision. Your eye doctor will also test and examine your eyes and measure your corneas.
This examination will ultimately determine which procedure is best for your eyes. For example, if your corneas are thin, you can’t undergo LASIK. But, PRK is ideal if you have thin corneas because it removes your epithelium instead of creating a flap.
This process is essential to ensure you have a safe and effective procedure. Without it, you cannot undergo any procedure to correct your vision.
Are you ready for the visual freedom provided by vision correction? Schedule a consultation at Chicago Cornea Consultants in Chicago, IL, to see which is best for you!
