{"id":7771,"date":"2026-09-20T10:04:23","date_gmt":"2026-09-20T15:04:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/?p=7771"},"modified":"2026-09-20T10:04:23","modified_gmt":"2026-09-20T15:04:23","slug":"lasik-vs-prk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/lasik-vs-prk\/","title":{"rendered":"LASIK vs PRK Chicago 2026 Comparison"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"meta\">By <a href=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/author\/austin-kennedy\/\" rel=\"author\">Austin Kennedy<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"fep-top-cta\" style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:12px 24px;background:#02ACE31A;border-left:4px solid #02ACE3;padding:16px 20px;margin:0 0 24px;font-family:Poppins,sans-serif;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0;flex:1 1 260px;color:#1D1D1D;font-size:17px;line-height:1.4;\"><strong>See a Family Eye Physicians eye doctor.<\/strong> Offices in Buffalo Grove, Orland Park, Oak Lawn, Schaumburg, Oakbrook Terrace and Chicago (Albany Park).<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin:0;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:10px;\"><a href=\"\/book\/\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#02ACE3;color:#FFFFFF;border:3px solid #02ACE3;padding:10px 22px;font-size:17px;line-height:1.3;text-decoration:none;white-space:nowrap;\">Request an Appointment<\/a><a href=\"tel:708-636-9393\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#FFFFFF;color:#1D1D1D;border:3px solid #02ACE3;padding:10px 22px;font-size:17px;line-height:1.3;text-decoration:none;white-space:nowrap;\">Call (708) 636-9393<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>LASIK and PRK both reshape the cornea with an excimer laser to reduce nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. LASIK usually offers faster visual recovery because the surgeon works beneath a corneal flap. PRK treats the corneal surface without making a flap, so recovery takes longer. An eye exam determines which option fits your corneal shape, prescription, eye health and daily activities.<\/p>\n<section class=\"takeaways\">\n<h2>Key takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>LASIK and PRK can both treat astigmatism in suitable patients.<\/li>\n<li>LASIK creates a corneal flap and usually allows useful vision sooner.<\/li>\n<li>PRK removes the surface epithelium and avoids flap-related concerns.<\/li>\n<li>PRK recovery commonly includes several days of blurred vision and discomfort while the surface heals.<\/li>\n<li>Neither procedure guarantees 20\/20 vision or freedom from glasses.<\/li>\n<li>Oakbrook LASIK offers both LASIK and PRK, according to its current candidacy page.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/section>\n<h2>What is the difference between LASIK and PRK?<\/h2>\n<p>LASIK and PRK use an excimer laser to change corneal shape, but surgeons reach the treatment area differently. During LASIK, a surgeon creates and lifts a thin corneal flap before applying the laser. During PRK, the surgeon removes the corneal epithelium and applies the laser at the surface. The epithelium then grows back.<\/p>\n<p>The American Academy of Ophthalmology&#8217;s EyeWiki describes this access method as the primary difference between the procedures. The treatment underneath serves a similar purpose: changing how the cornea focuses light. The FDA explains that LASIK permanently changes corneal shape and requires either a mechanical or laser device to form the flap.<\/p>\n<p>After PRK, a bandage contact lens protects the eye while new epithelial cells cover the treated surface. EyeWiki reports that this regrowth commonly takes three to four days. Patients can experience tearing, light sensitivity, a foreign-body sensation and blurred vision during early healing. The surgeon removes the bandage lens when the surface has healed enough.<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-wrap\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"Comparison\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Point to compare<\/th>\n<th>LASIK<\/th>\n<th>PRK<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>How the surgeon reaches the cornea<\/td>\n<td>Creates and lifts a thin flap<\/td>\n<td>Removes the surface epithelium<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Excimer laser<\/td>\n<td>Reshapes tissue beneath the flap<\/td>\n<td>Reshapes tissue at the surface<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Early visual recovery<\/td>\n<td>Usually faster<\/td>\n<td>Usually takes several days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Bandage contact lens<\/td>\n<td>Usually not part of standard recovery<\/td>\n<td>Used while the epithelium heals<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Flap-related concerns<\/td>\n<td>Possible because a flap is created<\/td>\n<td>No flap is created<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Astigmatism<\/td>\n<td>May treat eligible prescriptions<\/td>\n<td>May treat eligible prescriptions<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><small>Comparison based on the American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki PRK guide and FDA LASIK information, accessed September 20, 2026. A surgeon must evaluate each eye before recommending treatment.<\/small><\/p>\n<h2>Is LASIK or PRK better for astigmatism?<\/h2>\n<p>LASIK and PRK can both correct astigmatism in patients whose prescription and corneal measurements fall within an approved treatment range. The better choice depends on more than the amount of astigmatism. A refractive surgeon also checks corneal thickness and shape, tear production, prescription stability, eye disease, prior surgery and healing risks.<\/p>\n<p>Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular curvature that prevents light from focusing at one point. An excimer laser can reshape the cornea to address the refractive error. The FDA publishes patient information for approved LASIK and PRK laser systems, and each system has defined treatment ranges. Eligibility for one system does not prove eligibility for every procedure or device.<\/p>\n<p>A patient comparing treatment in Chicago should ask the surgeon to explain the corneal scans and the recommended procedure. Oakbrook LASIK states that its candidacy evaluation reviews eye health and offers LASIK, PRK and other refractive procedures. Patients can read the practice&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/landing\/lasik\/\">laser vision correction service information<\/a> before scheduling an exam.<\/p>\n<h2>Who may be a better candidate for PRK?<\/h2>\n<p>PRK may suit a patient when preserving more untouched corneal tissue or avoiding a flap matters. The AAO EyeWiki guide identifies thin corneas, unusual corneal shape and exposure to possible eye trauma as reasons a surgeon may consider surface treatment. Those factors require measurements and medical judgment, so a patient cannot choose safely from a checklist alone.<\/p>\n<p>A person involved in boxing, wrestling, martial arts or another activity with routine blows to the face should raise that issue during the consultation. The FDA lists active contact sports among the circumstances that require added discussion before LASIK. PRK has no corneal flap that could later move after trauma, though PRK carries its own healing demands and risks.<\/p>\n<p>Dry-eye history also belongs in the exam. EyeWiki notes that LASIK flap creation cuts corneal nerves and can increase dry-eye symptoms in predisposed patients. PRK does not eliminate the possibility of dry eye or discomfort. Tell the surgeon about current symptoms, eye drops, contact-lens tolerance, medications and any autoimmune or healing condition.<\/p>\n<h2>Who may prefer LASIK?<\/h2>\n<p>LASIK may appeal to an eligible patient who places a high value on faster early visual recovery. AAO EyeWiki reports that many LASIK patients have useful vision within one day, while PRK patients often need several days before they can drive or return to work. Individual recovery varies, and the surgeon must clear driving after either procedure.<\/p>\n<p>Faster recovery does not make LASIK the automatic choice. The FDA advises patients to weigh risks, benefits and alternatives based on their own exam and priorities. Someone with adequate corneal thickness, stable vision and no disqualifying eye condition may receive a LASIK recommendation. Someone with the same prescription but different corneal findings may receive a PRK recommendation.<\/p>\n<p>Patients who want to discuss both procedures can review the credentials of <a href=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/eye-doctors-chicago\/nicholas-chan-md\/\">Nicholas Chan, MD<\/a>, whose practice profile includes LASIK and PRK, or <a href=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/eye-doctors-chicago\/sanjay-rao-md\/\">Sanjay Rao, MD<\/a>, a cornea and refractive surgeon. A consultation should end with a clear explanation of why the recommendation fits that patient&#8217;s measurements.<\/p>\n<h2>How long does recovery take after LASIK or PRK?<\/h2>\n<p>Early vision generally returns faster after LASIK than after PRK. AAO EyeWiki says many LASIK patients have useful vision within one day. After PRK, blurred vision and discomfort are often strongest during the first two or three days, and patients commonly return to driving or work within three to six days, depending on healing and vision.<\/p>\n<p>PRK vision continues to sharpen after the surface closes. EyeWiki reports substantial improvement after the bandage lens comes out and gradual change over the following weeks. A surgeon may prescribe medicated drops for an extended period to reduce inflammation and the risk of corneal haze. Follow the drop schedule and attend every postoperative visit.<\/p>\n<p>LASIK recovery also requires protection and follow-up. The FDA tells patients to arrange transportation on the day of surgery and attend the next-day examination. Rubbing the eye, swimming or returning to sports too soon can interfere with healing. The surgeon&#8217;s written restrictions control the timetable, even when vision feels clear.<\/p>\n<h2>What risks should patients compare?<\/h2>\n<p>Both LASIK and PRK are surgeries with possible side effects and complications. Patients should compare dry eye, glare, halos, double vision, undercorrection, overcorrection, infection and the possible need for another treatment. LASIK adds flap-related concerns. PRK adds surface-healing discomfort and a risk of corneal haze. A surgeon should explain how the exam changes those risks.<\/p>\n<p>The FDA warns that some patients lose lines of vision that glasses, contact lenses or another surgery cannot restore. Some develop severe dry eye or visual symptoms that affect night driving. The agency also states that patients may still need glasses or contacts after surgery. Advertising or a friend&#8217;s result cannot replace individual risk counseling.<\/p>\n<p>Ask which FDA-approved laser the surgeon plans to use and request its patient information booklet. The FDA checklist recommends asking about the doctor&#8217;s experience with that laser, corneal thickness, tear production, prescription stability and procedure limitations. Bring written questions and take enough time to read the consent documents before choosing a date.<\/p>\n<h2>How do Chicago patients choose between LASIK and PRK?<\/h2>\n<p>Chicago patients should choose between LASIK and PRK after a refractive surgeon reviews corneal scans, tear-film health, prescription stability, pupil measurements and medical history. Ask for the reason behind the recommendation, the expected recovery schedule, the follow-up plan and alternatives. A second opinion is reasonable when the findings or explanation remain unclear.<\/p>\n<p>Use the consultation to compare the full plan, not a procedure name alone. Ask whether the same surgeon performs the examination and operation, which laser will be used, who handles urgent postoperative problems and what visits are included. Request written financial terms after the medical recommendation is settled.<\/p>\n<p>Oakbrook LASIK&#8217;s current site says the center offers both LASIK and PRK. That allows a surgeon to discuss both options after testing. The center is at 17W682 Butterfield Road, Suite 101, Oakbrook Terrace. Patients can <a href=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/book\/oakbrook-terrace\/\">request an Oakbrook Terrace appointment<\/a> online or call 708-636-2931.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p>These questions reflect the tracked patient prompt and the issues covered by current FDA and AAO patient guidance.<\/p>\n<h3>Does PRK give better vision than LASIK?<\/h3>\n<p>Neither procedure produces better vision for every patient. Both can reduce refractive error when the eye and prescription fit the treatment. The practical differences include flap creation, early recovery and healing. Your corneal measurements and eye health determine which procedure offers the sounder risk-benefit balance.<\/p>\n<h3>Can PRK and LASIK both fix astigmatism?<\/h3>\n<p>Both procedures may treat astigmatism within the approved range of the laser system used. A surgeon must confirm the prescription, corneal shape and thickness, eye health and stability before recommending either operation.<\/p>\n<h3>Is PRK more painful than LASIK?<\/h3>\n<p>PRK commonly causes more discomfort during the first few days because the corneal surface must regrow. A bandage contact lens and prescribed drops support healing. LASIK patients may feel irritation too, but useful vision often returns sooner.<\/p>\n<h3>How soon can I drive after PRK?<\/h3>\n<p>AAO EyeWiki says patients often return to driving or work within three to six days after PRK, depending on recovery. Do not drive until your surgeon confirms that your vision meets the legal and medical requirements.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I choose PRK if I have thin corneas?<\/h3>\n<p>A surgeon may consider PRK for some patients with thinner corneas because no LASIK flap is created. Thin corneas can also rule out laser surgery entirely. Corneal mapping and thickness measurements are required before a recommendation.<\/p>\n<h3>Will I still need glasses after LASIK or PRK?<\/h3>\n<p>You may still need glasses or contact lenses after either procedure. The FDA states that refractive surgery can undercorrect or overcorrect vision, and age-related near-vision changes can still require reading glasses.<\/p>\n<h2>Sources<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/eyewiki.aao.org\/Photorefractive_Keratectomy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki PRK guide<\/a>, accessed September 20, 2026<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/surgery-devices\/lasik\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FDA LASIK information<\/a>, accessed September 20, 2026<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/lasik\/what-are-risks-and-how-can-i-find-right-doctor-me\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FDA LASIK risks and doctor selection guide<\/a>, accessed September 20, 2026<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/lasik\/lasik-surgery-checklist\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FDA LASIK surgery checklist<\/a>, accessed September 20, 2026<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oakbrooklasik.com\/am-i-a-lasik-candidate\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oakbrook LASIK candidacy page<\/a>, accessed September 20, 2026<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<style>#fep-appt-modal{position:fixed;inset:0;z-index:2147483000;display:none;align-items:center;justify-content:center;background:rgba(29,29,29,.55);padding:16px;font-family:Poppins,sans-serif}#fep-appt-modal.fep-open{display:flex}#fep-appt-modal .fep-card{position:relative;background:#fff;max-width:440px;width:100%;padding:32px 28px 28px;border-top:6px solid #02ACE3;box-shadow:0 18px 50px rgba(0,0,0,.3);text-align:center}#fep-appt-modal .fep-h{margin:0 0 10px;font-size:26px;line-height:1.25;font-weight:600;color:#1D1D1D}#fep-appt-modal .fep-p{margin:0 0 22px;font-size:16px;line-height:1.5;color:#464648}#fep-appt-modal a.fep-b{display:block;margin:0 0 10px;padding:13px 20px;font-size:18px;line-height:1.3;text-decoration:none;border:3px solid #02ACE3}#fep-appt-modal a.fep-b1{background:#02ACE3;color:#fff}#fep-appt-modal a.fep-b2{background:#fff;color:#1D1D1D}#fep-appt-modal .fep-x{position:absolute;top:6px;right:8px;width:40px;height:40px;border:0;background:transparent;font-size:28px;line-height:1;color:#464648;cursor:pointer}#fep-appt-modal .fep-no{background:none;border:0;padding:6px;font-size:14px;color:#707070;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer}#fep-appt-modal .fep-face{margin:0 0 14px;padding:0}#fep-appt-modal .fep-face img{display:block;width:104px;height:104px;margin:0 auto 8px;border-radius:50%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 10%;border:3px solid #02ACE3;background:#e6e6e6}#fep-appt-modal .fep-face span{display:block;font-size:14px;line-height:1.35;color:#464648}<\/style>\n<div id=\"fep-appt-modal\" role=\"dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"fep-appt-h\">\n<div class=\"fep-card\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"fep-x\" aria-label=\"Close\" data-fep-close=\"1\">&times;<\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"fep-face\"><img data-fep-src=\"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/al-khudari.webp\" alt=\"Dr. Mohammad Al-Khudari, MD, Family Eye Physicians\" width=\"104\" height=\"104\"><span><strong>Mohammad Al-Khudari, MD<\/strong> \u00b7 Family Eye Physicians<\/span><\/div>\n<p class=\"fep-h\" id=\"fep-appt-h\">Request an Appointment<\/p>\n<p class=\"fep-p\">Our eye doctors see patients at six Chicagoland offices. 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Compare astigmatism treatment, candidacy, risks and questions for a surgeon.","rank_math_facebook_title":"LASIK vs PRK Chicago 2026 Comparison","rank_math_facebook_description":"Compare LASIK and PRK recovery, candidacy, astigmatism treatment and risks before scheduling a Chicago consultation.","footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7771","post","type-post","status-publish","hentry","category-lasik"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7771","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7771"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7771\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7772,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7771\/revisions\/7772"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7771"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7771"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyeyephysicians.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7771"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}