LASIK/PRK FAQs

What is refractive surgery?

Refractive surgery is a surgical procedure (either LASIK, PRK or corneal rings) that reduces or eliminates your dependence on contacts and/or glasses. These surgeries are effective on patients who are near-sighted (myopic), far-sighted (hyperopic) and/or astigmatism.

What is LASIK?

LASIK is Laser Assisted in-situ Keratomileusis. A combination of a corneal flap and excimer laser are used to change the shape of the cornea.

What is PRK?

PRK is Photorefractive Keratectomy. PRK is a surgical procedure using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea.

What is the goal of refractive surgery?

The goal of LASIK or PRK is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on contact lenses or glasses.

Who is considered a good candidate for LASIK or PRK?

Good candidates are healthy patients, between the ages of 21 and 55, who have had a stable prescription for one year. Pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions are not considered to be good candidates. A more detailed explanation of the criteria for identifying LASIK candidates is included in the LASIK topic list.

Are there any risks involved with either LASIK or PRK?

There are always potential risks with any surgical procedures. During the refractive evaluation process, risks and complications will be discussed in detail. You can also contact our Laser Vision Coordinator to ask questions regarding laser vision correction, at any time.

Will I have to wear glasses after surgery?

The results of LASIK and PRK cannot be guaranteed. There may be a possibility that you will still require glasses or contacts, after the procedure, to achieve your best possible vision.

How long does the procedure take?

The actual surgical procedure takes approximately 15 minutes for each eye. Pre and post-operative care will require that you be at the surgery center approximately 2 hours.

When will my vision become clear and stable after surgery?

LASIK: A few days to several weeks.

PRK: A few weeks to several months.

Is the surgery painful?

LASIK and PRK are performed on an outpatient basis. Your eye is numbed with eye drops and you will feel no pain during the procedure.

Will I experience pain immediately after surgery?

LASIK: Patients may experience a gritty sensation with some light sensitivity and tearing for approximately 24-48 hours.

PRK: Patients may experience a gritty sensation with some light sensitivity and tearing for approximately 3 to 5 days.

What will I experience after LASIK or PRK surgery?

RK: You may experience halos around lights, especially at night, glare, increasing light sensitivity, and fluctuating vision from day to night, which should improve in time.

PRK: You may experience glare and light sensitivity, which should improve in time.

LASIK: Similar to PRK

When can I return to work after surgery?

LASIK: Usually 1-3 days, depending on the patient's discomfort and vision needs.

PRK: Usually 3-5 days, depending on the patient's discomfort and vision needs.

What are the long term effects of LASIK and PRK?

LASIK: A three-year study at Emory University, published in January 2001, showed that there was no significant change in the cells in the corneal endothelium after LASIK surgery. However, the long term results and stability of LASIK are still unknown at this time. The LASIK procedure is the most widely performed vision correction procedure in the United States.

PRK: Established 8-10 years in European countries and 6 years in the United States.

What should I expect for follow up care after LASIK or PRK surgery?

LASIK: Patient will wear a see-through shield over each operated eye and sleep is recommended. The patient will have a post-op appointment the day after surgery.

PRK: Patient will have a bandage contact lens on the operated eye and sleep is recommended. Patient will have a post-op appointment the day after surgery.