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Here are three of the most common laser vision correction procedures:

Lasik has become the most popular type of laser eye surgery. The surgeon cuts the flap of the cornea, lifts it away from the eye, and reshapes the tissue underneath with the laser. The flap is then returned to its proper position. Unlike the PRK procedure, in most cases vision is immediately improved and continues to improve over a period of a few weeks. Some people are not eligible for Lasik due to corneal scars or other conditions, but they may still be candidates for PRK.

PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) is an early version of laser eye surgery, and is slowly becoming less common as Lasik’s popularity grows. During the PRK procedure, the surgeon manually removes a thin layer on the surface of the cornea. The laser is used to vaporize small amounts of tissue on the surface of the cornea, which is left to repair itself over the period of a few days. Patients will probably wear a special contact lens as a bandage for the cornea during this time.

Lasek is similar to Lasik, but a thinner piece of cornea is lifted away from the eye, and an alcohol solution is used to weaken the epithelium, the thin, outer layer of the eye. During PRK, the epithelium is removed and eventually grows back, however, Lasek aims to save the epithelium. The laser is then used to reshape the stroma – the middle layer of the cornea – and the epithelium is put back in place. The healing process usually takes about two weeks. Some people with thinner corneas choose Lasek over Lasik since it is less invasive.

While the majority of people experience no complications, as with any medical procedure, there are risks. Some of these risks include infection and delayed healing, hazy vision, severe dry eyes, and poor night vision. Some patients may have to wear glasses or contacts even after the surgery, or undergo a second surgery to fully correct vision.

For most people, the benefits greatly outweigh the risks. Studies show that about 85 percent of people who have undergone refractive surgery no longer have to rely on contact lenses or glasses every day.

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