When it comes to corrective vision surgery, patients have a choice between LASIK and PRK. Both procedures offer the same results, but the method used by eye doctors differ. If you are considering LASIK or PRK surgery, here is what you need to know:

What Is the Difference?

Laser eye surgery, or LASIK, relies on an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. During the procedure, the doctor will make an incision in the cornea. The incision is used to create a flap of tissue that is lifted and used to reshape the layers of the cornea. Imperfections with the curve of the eye are corrected and your vision should improve.

Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is similar, but there is one distinct difference. Instead of creating a flap in the cornea, the procedure is completed without it. The doctor will instead remove the outer layer of your cornea and then reshape the area that needs correction.

Following PRK, you will have to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to aid in your recovery. The eye drops help to control any discomfort that you might experience. You might have to take them for several months.

By contrast, you will likely not be required to take any eyedrops following LASIK. The recovery time for LASIK is also shorter. You will likely experience improved vision within hours of the procedure. However, PRK patients can take a few days before they have better vision than before. With both procedures, it might take months before the full results are realized.

Which Should You Have?

Since both procedures will likely lead to the same results, choosing the one that is right for you comes down to your eye doctor's recommendations, your lifestyle, and personal preferences. Your doctor will make a recommendation after a careful eye examination.

Make sure you disclose any activities that you engage in that could have an impact on your recovery. For instance, if play sports, such as boxing, PRK might be the better option because of the lack of a corneal flap. The corneal flap created by LASIK could leave you vulnerable to eye damage if you have a facial injury before your eyes have completely healed.

Whether you are forgetful or not also plays a role in which procedure you should opt for. If you opt for PRK, it is important that you remember to use the eye drops daily to avoid infection.