If you had PRK it probably hurt for a few days

Jon Dishler, MD answers: How to tell if I got PRK or Lasik?

Last month, I underwent what I believed to be PRK (at least that's what I wanted). However, there is no mention of PRK or (photo-refractive keratectomy) on the "Operative Report." In the pre-op and post-op paperwork, "PRK" is present.

My mother, who was watching the says that the "VISX" machine that was used for the CustomVue treatment listed the procedure as "LASIK." So, how can I be sure that I received PRK and not LASIK?

The operative report also indicates that "Physician has specified a LASIK Treatment, Superior Flap." I chose PRK to avoid the flap. Please advise. Thanks.


Jon Dishler, MD
2 months ago

It is possible that the paperwork was not correct as to what you had, but you should have signed an operative permit and discussed with the doctor the procedure that was performed.  If you had PRK, you would have had to wear a contact lens for about 5 days and your vision would be blurry for part of that time.  You should have had mild to moderate discomfort for a couple of days.

With LASIK you would have had a flap made first either with a separate laser or with a microkeratome and you would have not had a contact lens placed in most cases.  Your vision would be clear within 1-2 days and you would have minimal discomfort.

Another doctor or your own could examine your eyes and quickly tell which procedure you had especially if it was recently performed.

You should be able to call your doctor and find out which procedure was in fact performed.

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