May 6, 2026

This piece is sponsored by Vance Thompson Vision.

Laser eye surgery has revolutionized how ophthalmologists help patients achieve clearer vision, freeing them from relying solely on glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK and PRK are two of the most popular procedures for vision correction, but what exactly is the difference between the two? Understanding this distinction is important when determining which option may be best suited for your individual needs.

LASIK and PRK are similar in that they are both laser-based surgeries designed to correct refractive errors by reshaping the cornea. These errors include:

• Nearsightedness, or myopia
• Farsightedness, or hyperopia
• Astigmatism

The key difference between these two procedures is how the cornea is accessed during surgery.

The LASIK procedure involves the surgeon creating a thin flap in the cornea’s outermost layer. The flap is gently lifted, and the cornea is reshaped using a laser. Once completed, the flap is repositioned and heals naturally within a few days.

PRK does not create a flap. Instead, the surgeon removes the cornea’s outer layer of tissue — the epithelium — then uses a laser to reshape the cornea. After surgery, a soft, clear contact lens is placed over the eye, acting as a bandage while the tissue grows back, which takes five to seven days.

Important factors for consideration

When determining which procedure is right for you, your doctor will take several important factors into consideration and guide you through each one:

• Suitability — PRK is more suitable for patients with thinner corneas or irregular surfaces. LASIK benefits individuals with moderate to high refractive errors or thicker corneas.
• Recovery — With LASIK, patients often can experience clearer vision within a few days. PRK patients experience a longer healing process, with vision improving steadily over the course of a few weeks.
• Lifestyle — Individuals who have hard-labor jobs or participate in high-impact sports might prefer PRK because of the reduced risk of flap complications.
• Long-term results — Both procedures produce excellent long-term outcomes. The primary difference is in the recovery process, which varies based on each patient’s unique eye structure and healing response.

Advancements in LASIK technology

Vance Thompson Vision recently introduced the next generation of LASIK technology: WaveLight® Plus. This advanced platform builds on traditional LASIK by incorporating highly detailed 3D imaging and ray-tracing technology to create a truly personalized treatment plan based on how each individual eye processes light. 

This level of customization allows for an even more precise procedure, helping optimize visual outcomes and enhance overall quality of vision. 

Vance Thompson Vision is the first center in the region to offer this technology commercially.

The answer is …

At the end of the day, both LASIK and PRK offer proven and effective solutions for vision correction. They’ve both helped countless individuals experience clearer vision without the need for glasses or contacts. 

When it comes to deciding which option is right for you, you don’t have to do it alone. The first step is a comprehensive consultation with an experienced eye care professional. At Vance Thompson Vision, we offer complimentary, comprehensive consultations to help patients find the best vision correction option for their lifestyle.

To learn more or take the first step, take our quick vision quiz to see if you may be a candidate.

For information, visit our website, or call 605-361-EYES (3937).