PRK vs. LASIK
This technology had been studied and explored for the past centuries. In 1950’s a Spanish scientist have introduced a new way of treating and correcting refractive errors. Then it was during 1962 whilst laser was used for medical treatment when a scientist treated a patient suffering from diabetic retinopathy from which a laser beam was employed to cauterize a leaky blood vessel and prevent probable blindness. During the 20th century, United States of America decided to test the usage of laser during refractive error surgery and proved that it is safe and efficient to use such new technology. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) ratified and legalize the utilization of LASIK also known as laser in situ keratomileusis and PRK or photorefractive keratectomy in correcting refractive errors.

Laser Eye Treatment
Controversies and disagreements have been filed against the use of laser eye surgery rather than prescribing glasses and contact lenses. Their premises were that, these surgical operations are dangerous and risky to the patient due to pre-operative, post-operative complications along with long term problems that were encountered by some patients.

Some patients with poor result after surgical procedures have reported to experienced significantly poor quality of life accompanied by long-term pain after operation. They have also attested to the presence of complications such as dry eyes that stayed up to the present times, seeing halos, ghosts or shadows, and double vision. To voice their feelings, most of these people have created websites, assemble into groups and filed cases to the authority. They have even condemned physicians who advised and prescribed the use of these procedures in eye disorders.

However this dilemma did not stop most of the patients who dreamt of having a good life, a good vision, and a permanent escape from wearing eyeglasses and contact lenses. Accordingly, authorities have warned patients that undertaking such surgical procedures is not without any risks and danger however 98% of people who undergo LASIK and PRK said that they are satisfied with the result and they have achieved what they have expected at the first time.

Nonetheless, it is still best to discuss this matter with your ophthalmologist in order to fully grasp the possible outcomes and problems that may be encountered before, during, and after the operation. Everything has pros and cons and the choice will and always reside in you.