PRK and LASIK are both refractive surgeries that can improve your vision and reduce your dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
Each procedure helps patients with different needs, and Dr. Holzman helps patients decide which surgery is right for them.
Explore the differences in these procedures offered by Andrew E. Holzman, MD, FACS, in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland…
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. During the procedure, the entire outer layer of the cornea, the epithelial layer, is removed. Dr. Holzman uses a special liquid solution to remove the corneal epithelium, and an excimer laser to precisely reshape the curvature of the tissue underneath. After surgery, a soft bandage contact lens will be placed to facilitate healing of the eye. New epithelial cells will begin to regenerate within three to five days.
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) also corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. The procedure begins with the creation of a corneal flap. Dr. Holzman uses a blade-free technique to precisely and safely create this flap. He then pulls back the flap to reveal the corneal tissue beneath, which is reshaped with an excimer laser. Following LASIK surgery, the flap is simply closed shut. Patients may experience moderate dry eye, but recovery is typically comfortable and easy.
Are you considering LASIK vs. PRK? Your candidacy can depend on a variety of factors including corneal thickness and lifestyle. With nearly 30 years of surgical experience and hundreds of patient referrals, Dr. Holzman can help you make a decision that can significantly improve your quality of life.
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If you are interested in laser eye surgery, but you’re not sure whether PRK or LASIK is the right choice for you, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation at one of our locations in Washington, D.C., Virginia, or Maryland. During your consultation, Dr. Holzman will use sophisticated technologies to closely evaluate a number of factors that can determine the best treatment option for you.
Dr. Holzman’s recommendation of PRK or LASIK is almost always based on the shape, strength and thickness of the patient’s cornea. Patients with average corneal thickness may be great candidates for LASIK, while patients with thin corneas may be better served by PRK. Of course, there are other factors that can influence our surgeon’s recommendation as well, such as a patient’s lifestyle or occupation.
Whether you are better suited to PRK or LASIK, you can trust that Dr. Holzman is the right ophthalmologist to see for a refractive surgery consultation. When you choose Dr. Holzman and the Holzman Laser Vision Centers of greater Washington, D.C., you will receive:
Andrew E. Holzman, MD, FACS, is one of the most well-respected ophthalmologists in the greater Washington, DC, area. He is regularly sought out by professional athletes, media personalities, and other doctors for laser eye surgery.
Dr. Jonathan Solomon has been acknowledged by GQ Magazine in their “Men of the Year” issue, recognized nationally as one of the “Top Doctors in America” by his peers, and listed as one of Baltimore-Washington’s Super Doctors for 2013.
To schedule a consultation at one of our locations, please fill out our online form or give us a call at (855) 99-LASIK.
