Frequently Asked Questions about Lasik and PRK

Every person has a unique set of eyes and their own unique goals they want to accomplish with laser vision correction. Common reasons for doing LASIK are myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Determining whether you are a good candidate for laser vision correction begins with and in depth discussion with your eye specialist. 

Specific requirements that must be met before undergoing laser vision correction include:

• Age 21 Years or Older
• Stable vision for at least one year
• Not currently pregnant or nursing

Information on dry eyes is featured below. 

Lasik, or (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is an FDA recognized and approved procedure to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Operation of the laser includes safeguards to not only perform a safe procedure but  to deliver the highest quality treatments. Like any surgical procedure there are risks, but fortunately they are very rare.

Most common reported symptoms after LASIK include dry eye and glare or halos at night. Glare and halos lasting longer than 6 months are rare with modern laser vision correction protocols.For information on dry eyes, please see below.  

In LASIK a laser is used to create a flap in the cornea. Next the flap is lifted, the vision correction treatment is performed, and the flap is positioned back into place. 

In PRK(photorefractive keratectomy), the treatment is done to the superficial most layer of the cornea. 

Determining whether you are a candidate for LASIK vs PRK depends on your refraction(myopia,hyperopia, or astigmatism) and only can be determined during a discussion with your eye surgeon. 

The physicians at Lasik Phoenix are ready to serve your laser vision correction needs! Call today. 

Only your LASIK surgeon can discuss your potential treatment options with you. Likely dry eyes are not a big deal  when it comes to laser vision correction. LASIK rarely may worsen your dry eye symptoms. Upon initial consultation you may be treated with 4-8 weeks of artificial tears or medicines to improve the health of the surface of your eyes prior to undergoing LASIK. In severe cases, dry eyes may prohibit you from undergoing laser vision correction altogether.

One of the best treatments for dry eye is something nice and natural. A microwaveable warm compress helps your eyelids to improve the quality of your own natural tears, See below for more information. 

You may be a candidate for enhancement at anytime following your original procedure. If you originally had LASIK sometimes an enhancement may be done with PRK or LASEK on top of the original treatment. If you Previously had PRK or LASEK, it likely will be safe to do another enhancement, We recommend scheduling an appointment for a thorough evaluation to decide if you are a candidate for enhancement.