How does LASIK differ from PRK and LASEK?
The main difference is the use of a microkeratome to make a small cut across the outer layer of the cornea. This creates a small flap which can be moved to one side, and enables the surgeon to reshape the cornea.
LASEK and PRK are very similar except LASEK also allows the epithelium (outer layer of the cornea) to be used as a flap. This flap can then be raised to allow access for the laser. Plus, a small, soft contact lens is placed on the surface of the eye to assist with healing.
The main difference between LASIK and PRK/LASEK is in the technique used to remove the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) so that the middle layer of the cornea (stroma) is exposed.
One advantage of LASIK is that there is very little pain or discomfort and a quicker recovery time than the other two procedures.
LASIK can treat most types of refractive error, ranging from mild through to severe. But some extremely high levels may not be suitable.
LASIK Laser Eye Surgery Guide:
- Intro to LASIK laser eye surgery
- How is LASIK different to LASEK and PRK?
- Who should consider LASIK?
- What are the alternatives to LASIK
- What are the risks of LASIK?
- What are the benefits of LASIK?
- What Should I ask at LASIK Consultation?
- How much does LASIK cost?
- What is the LASIK procedure?
- How long does LASIK last for?
- What does recovery from LASIK involve?
- LASIK Complications
- LASIK Surgery Checklist
LASER EYE SURGRY GUIDE
- Laser Eye Surgery
- LASIK Eye Surgery
- Wavefront LASIK Eye Surgery
- EPI LASIK Eye Surgery
- IntraLase LASIK Eye Surgery
- Z-LASIK Eye Surgery
- PRK Eye Surgery
- LASEK Eye Surgery
- LTK Laser Eye Surgery
- PTK Eye Surgery
OTHER EYE SURGERY
- RK Eye Surgery
- AK Eye Surgery
- CK Eye Surgery
- CLE/RLE Eye Surgery
- INTACS Eye Surgery
- Cross Linking Eye Surgery
- Blended Vision Eye Surgery
- Lens Implants
- IOL Eye Surgery