What is the difference between RK and LASIK Laser Vision Correction?

RK and LASIK Laser Vision Correction are procedures to correct refractive error by reshaping the cornea to allow light rays to properly focus on the retina. RK requires the use of a diamond blade to create radial incisions on the surface of the cornea. LASIK reshapes the cornea using cool waves of ultraviolet light that gently sculpt away nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism with microscopic precision using an Excimer laser.

What is the difference between PRK and RK?

PRK is the first Excimer laser procedure approved for use in the United States. With PRK, the surface of the cornea (epithelium) is scraped or ablated along with the corneal tissue underneath. This sculpting removes microscopic layers of the cornea to correct refractive error. In contrast, RK utilizes a diamond blade knife which makes radial incisions into the cornea.

Why is RK rarely used now?

The treatment of myopia using the excimer laser to reshape the cornea is more accurate than RK. LASIK and PRK leave the cornea more stable, whereas an eye that has had RK has a tendency to have increased effect over the years, resulting in progressive hyperopia, or farsightedness. This resulting hyperopia may require glasses, contact lens, or further surgery.

Surgical Complications

The incidence of complications as a result of refractive surgery is very low. The incidence of complications depends upon the experience of the surgeon, the equipment used, and individual and anatomic characteristics of the patient and his/her course of healing. Potential Surgical Complications are described in more detail here.

 

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