LASIK vs PRK: Complete Comparison Guide (NZ 2026)

LASIK and PRK are both proven laser eye surgery procedures that correct vision by reshaping the cornea. While they use the same laser technology and achieve identical long-term results, they differ significantly in technique, recovery time, and ideal candidates. This guide helps you understand which procedure is best for your eyes and lifestyle. Updated October 2026.

Quick Comparison: LASIK vs PRK

What Is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a two-step procedure. First, a thin hinged flap is created on the cornea's surface. Second, an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct vision. The flap is then repositioned and heals naturally without stitches.

LASIK Procedure Steps:

1. 1. Numbing Drops: Anesthetic eye drops eliminate pain (you remain awake)
2. 2. Flap Creation: Femtosecond laser creates a thin flap (100-120 microns) in 15 seconds
3. 3. Flap Lifting: Surgeon gently lifts and folds back the flap
4. 4. Laser Reshaping: Excimer laser removes microscopic corneal tissue (30-60 seconds)
5. 5. Flap Replacement: Flap is repositioned and adheres naturally within minutes
6. 6. Total Time: 10-15 minutes per eye, both eyes usually done same day

LASIK Advantages:

• ✓ Rapid Recovery: Most patients see clearly within 24 hours
• ✓ Minimal Discomfort: Only mild irritation for 4-6 hours post-surgery
• ✓ Quick Return to Normal: Back to work in 1-2 days, driving within 24-48 hours
• ✓ Less Haze Risk: Lower risk of corneal haze compared to PRK
• ✓ Predictable Results: Extremely consistent outcomes with modern technology
• ✓ Both Eyes Same Day: Can treat both eyes in one session
• ✓ No Bandage Contact Lens: Unlike PRK, no protective lens needed

LASIK Disadvantages:

• ✗ Permanent Flap: Flap never fully reattaches, creating lifetime trauma risk
• ✗ Not for Thin Corneas: Requires adequate corneal thickness (>500 microns)
• ✗ Flap Complications: Rare but possible wrinkles, displacement, infection under flap
• ✗ Dry Eyes: Higher risk of dry eye syndrome (15-20%) from nerve damage
• ✗ Contact Sports Risk: Flap can dislodge from significant eye trauma years later
• ✗ Higher Cost: Typically $200-$500 more per eye than PRK
• ✗ Military Restrictions: Some military roles don't accept LASIK (prefer PRK)

What Is PRK?

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is the original laser vision correction procedure (approved 1995, before LASIK). Instead of creating a flap, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed, and the laser directly reshapes the exposed corneal tissue. The epithelium naturally regenerates over 3-5 days.

PRK Procedure Steps:

1. 1. Numbing Drops: Anesthetic eye drops applied (completely painless during procedure)
2. 2. Epithelium Removal: Surgeon removes thin surface layer using alcohol solution or brush
3. 3. Laser Reshaping: Excimer laser reshapes exposed corneal tissue (30-60 seconds)
4. 4. Bandage Contact Lens: Soft contact lens placed to protect eye during healing
5. 5. Epithelium Regrowth: Surface cells naturally regenerate over 3-5 days
6. 6. Total Time: 5-10 minutes per eye, both eyes can be done same day

PRK Advantages:

• ✓ No Corneal Flap: Eliminates all flap-related complications and trauma risk
• ✓ Suitable for Thin Corneas: Safe option when LASIK isn't possible
• ✓ Military/Sports Approved: Preferred for high-impact activities, combat roles
• ✓ More Tissue Preserved: Saves 100-120 microns of corneal tissue (no flap)
• ✓ Lower Dry Eye Risk: Less nerve damage means fewer dry eye issues long-term
• ✓ Safer for Trauma: No risk of flap dislocation from eye injuries
• ✓ Same Long-term Results: Identical vision outcomes to LASIK after 6 months
• ✓ Lower Cost: Typically $200-$500 cheaper per eye

PRK Disadvantages:

• ✗ Slower Recovery: Takes 3-7 days to see clearly (vs 24 hours for LASIK)
• ✗ More Discomfort: Moderate pain for 3-4 days requiring prescription pain medication
• ✗ Delayed Return to Work: Need 5-7 days off (vs 1-2 days for LASIK)
• ✗ Bandage Contact Lens: Must wear protective lens for 3-5 days
• ✗ Corneal Haze Risk: 2-5% develop mild haze (usually temporary, more common in high prescriptions)
• ✗ Longer Stabilization: Final vision takes 3-6 months (vs 1-3 months LASIK)
• ✗ Light Sensitivity: More photophobia during first week of recovery

Recovery Comparison

Cost Comparison: NZ 2026 Pricing

Why is PRK cheaper? The procedure is simpler (no flap creation), takes less time, and doesn't require advanced femtosecond laser technology for flap making. However, many surgeons charge the same price for both procedures since the excimer laser and surgeon expertise are identical.

Which Procedure Is Right For You?

The Science: Same Laser, Different Technique

Important: Both LASIK and PRK use the exact same excimer laser to reshape your cornea. The laser treatment itself is identical - the only difference is how the surgeon accesses the corneal tissue:

• LASIK: Creates a protective flap, laser treats beneath it, flap replaced
• PRK: Removes surface layer, laser treats directly, surface regrows

This is why long-term vision results are statistically identical. Studies show no significant difference in final visual acuity, quality of vision, or complication rates beyond the healing period.

Success Rates and Results

What About SMILE?

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a newer alternative available at some NZ clinics. It's a minimally invasive procedure that combines advantages of both LASIK and PRK:

• • Creates tiny 2-4mm incision (vs 20mm LASIK flap)
• • Recovery similar to LASIK (1-2 days)
• • No flap complications like PRK
• • Lower dry eye risk than LASIK
• • Currently costs $4,500-$5,500 per eye (more expensive)
• • Limited to myopia and astigmatism (can't treat hyperopia yet)

SMILE is worth considering if you want LASIK-like recovery without flap creation and can afford the premium cost.

Pain and Discomfort Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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