LASIK creates a corneal flap to apply the laser underneath, offering faster recovery (24–48 hours) and minimal discomfort. PRK removes the surface epithelium and applies the laser directly, with longer recovery (1–2 weeks) but no flap risk and suitable for thin corneas. Both achieve 95%+ vision correction to 20/20 or better. Abroad: LASIK costs $800–$2,000 per pair of eyes versus $3,000–$6,000 in the US.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Murat Ustun, M.D., Founder & Medical Director, Flytocure Healthcare.
| Criterion | Option A | Option B |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Corneal flap created, laser applied underneath | Epithelium removed, laser applied to surface |
| Recovery to functional vision | 24–48 hours | 5–7 days |
| Full recovery | 1–2 weeks | 4–6 weeks for full clarity |
| Discomfort after surgery | Minimal — few hours | Moderate — 2–4 days |
| Suitable for thin corneas | No — requires adequate thickness for flap | Yes — removes less stromal tissue |
| Flap complications risk | 0.5–1% (flap dislocation, epithelial ingrowth) | None — no flap created |
| Contact sport / trauma suitability | Caution — flap can be disrupted by impact | Preferred — no flap to dislocate |
| Dry eye risk | Higher — corneal nerves more affected by flap | Lower — less nerve disruption |
| Visual outcome (20/20 or better) | 94–98% | 93–97% |
| Cost per pair of eyes (Turkey) | $800–$2,000 | $700–$1,800 |
| Cost per pair of eyes (US) | $3,000–$6,000 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Outcome Metric | LASIK | PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) |
|---|---|---|
| 20/20 vision or better | 94–98% | 93–97% |
| 20/40 vision or better (legal driving) | 99%+ | 99%+ |
| Regression rate (10 years) | <5% | <5% |
| Retreatment rate | 1–3% | 1–3% |
| Satisfaction rate at 1 year | 95–98% | 92–96% |
PRK is preferred for thin corneas. LASIK requires creating a corneal flap (approximately 100–150 microns thick) plus the ablation zone — requiring adequate remaining stromal tissue (minimum 250 microns post-treatment). PRK treats the surface directly, removing less total tissue, making it safer for corneas under 500 microns. Your surgeon will measure corneal thickness with a pachymeter to determine candidacy.
LASIK results are permanent for most patients. The laser permanently reshapes the cornea. However, natural aging changes to the eye's lens (presbyopia from age 40+) are not corrected by LASIK and will still occur. Regression (partial return of myopia) occurs in approximately 5% of patients within 10 years. Retreatment ('enhancement') is possible if regression occurs.
LASIK for both eyes costs $800–$2,000 in Turkey, including pre-operative assessment, the procedure, and post-operative medication. Premium options using Femto-LASIK (bladeless, all-laser) or SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) cost $1,500–$3,000. This is 60–75% less than US pricing of $3,000–$6,000.
Not sure which option is right for you? Our AI coordinator Maya can help — or request a free consultation with a qualified surgeon within 24 hours.
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