PRK actually predates LASIK in its availability as a laser refractive surgery. Like LASIK, PRK refractive surgery uses an excimer laser to correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism through the reshaping of the cornea. The primary difference between the two surgeries lies in how the underlying corneal tissue is accessed. With LASIK an IntraLase® laser is used to create a flap in the surface layer of the cornea, called the epithelium.

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With PRK, the epithelium is removed altogether. Therefore, PRK entails a longer recovery period than LASIK; however, it produces similarly outstanding results while eliminating the possibility of flap-related complications thus making it slightly safer.

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