Lasik and PRK both the surgeries are performed using laser and can treat the problems of vision with refractive errors. The complexity and degree of depth of the procedure varies in between these two and so the cost too. The results and recovery duration also differ in between these two procedures according to the procedures.
Which is Expensive?
Lasik surgery is expensive, since it is a complex procedure compared to the PRK procedure.
How Much Variation?
The difference between Lasik and PRK procedures vary in hundreds of dollars.
Why Lasik is Expensive?
To understand the difference in the cost of the procedures, the actual processes involved in them must be explored. Let us consider the Lasik procedure first. Initially a flap in the cornea is cut, either with a laser or microkeratome. Flap is an outer skin layer that protects the internal parts of the eye. The laser will then be focused on the eye lenses. The area and depth of the focus is determined by the pre-program, coded according to the refractive prescription of the patient, taken during primary check up of the eyes. Then the cornea is reshaped accordingly and easily.
When PRK is considered, initially a small corneal epithelium area will be removed, with the help of a blade, laser, special brush or solution of alcohol. After cornea is made out of the way, the lens will be shaped according to the pre-program coded according to the unique prescription of the patient. After the reshaping process is done according the program, a special bandage contact lens will be given.
Having understood the differences in the procedures, the cost is also varied according to the complexity of the procedure.
Which is Preferred?
Though Lasik is expensive and complex procedure for correcting the refractive errors of the eye, still Lasik is preferred by both the patient and surgeon. The reason for preferring the Lasik procedure is quick recovery and ability to return to normal life in very short time, within a couple of days. It is preferred because of the fact that the post operation risks and infections can be lesser.
How Much Each Cost
The total cost of each procedure is dependent upon various factors, starting from the unique patient’s condition, surgeon’s experience and standards followed by the hospital. The cost of Lasik procedure is approximately $2,000 to $2500 per one eye. When the PRK is considered, the cost of the procedure is around $2000 per eye.
After the treatment there are follow-up visits and these charges are added in the total charges of procedure most often. It is important to request the hospital administration to specify each and every expense and breakdown of the overall charges of the procedure selected.