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PRK/LASIK which would you chose?

I need an honest opinion from a doctor who is not trying to get my business.

I'm a candidate for both LASIK (bladeless) or PRK. I have done my homework and read up on both procedures. I don't feel 100% comfortable with either because of the risks involved, however my question is, which is more risky?

PRK and loosing Bowman's layer, or LASIK (bladeless) and having a flap cut to perform the procedure? I'm only in my 20s so I am thinking long term, which one would mean less complications?

If *you* were to have it done, which one would you chose? If a close family member was going to have it done, which one would you recommend?

I appreciate your answers :)
Best Answer
233488 tn?1310693103
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Like many things in life and Medicine there is no absolute answer. Some corneas are too thin to do LASIK and surface eximer is best (PRK). Sometimes the surgeon is much more experienced or comfortable with one or the other procedure and gets better results with one over the other. Some people have very low pain thresholds and do not want to have the variable pain that is more common with PRK than LASIK.

It's also important to know that if either is done and both eyes have 20/20 without glasses that you will still need reading glasses in your early mid 40s and as you get older no line bifocals. These procedures do not keep you out of glasses for life.

JCH MD
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233488 tn?1310693103
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
best of luck
JCH MD
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Avatar universal
Thank you Dr. Hagan for your reply.

My cornea isn't too thin, but I'm not too sure about my pain treshold. I have done some research and I think that I'm more comfortable with the long term complications of PRK rather than with Lasik...the idea of a flap complication isn't something I am willing to risk.

I appreciate the fact that in my 40s I'll need glasses again, but that's some 15 years away.

I'm going in for a consultation on Wednesday and I will discuss these thoughts with the doctor.
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