How to Choose the Right Vision Correction Procedure: LASIK, PRK, or Clear Lens Removal?
If you’ve been dreaming of life without glasses or contacts, you’ve likely come across a few popular vision correction options: LASIK, PRK, and Clear Lens Removal (CLR), also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). Each procedure has its own benefits, and the “best” one depends on your age, eye health, and lifestyle goals.
At Peninsula Laser Eye Medical Group, we help patients of all ages choose the solution that will give them the clearest, most comfortable vision. Here’s what you need to know before making a decision.
LASIK: The Most Well-Known Laser Option
LASIK reshapes the cornea with a precise laser to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It’s a great option for adults in their 20s to 40s with healthy corneas and a stable prescription.
Pros:
- Quick recovery—most patients see clearly within 24 hours
- Minimal discomfort during and after the procedure
- Excellent long-term outcomes for distance vision
Things to Consider:
- Doesn’t correct age-related reading vision (presbyopia)
- Requires a healthy cornea with sufficient thickness
- Not ideal for patients with chronic dry eyes
PRK: A Great Choice for Thin Corneas
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) works similarly to LASIK but without creating a corneal flap. Instead, the outer corneal layer is gently removed before reshaping the surface with a laser.
Pros:
- Suitable for patients with thin corneas
- Eliminates flap-related complications
- Delivers the same vision results as LASIK over time
Things to Consider:
- Longer initial recovery—vision may be blurry for a few days
- Mild discomfort during healing
- Requires careful follow-up care during the first week
Clear Lens Removal (Refractive Lens Exchange): The 45+ Solution
As we reach our 40s and 50s, the eye’s natural lens becomes less flexible, causing presbyopia—difficulty seeing up close. Clear Lens Removal (CLR/RLE) solves this by replacing the natural lens with a custom intraocular lens (IOL) that corrects near, far, and intermediate vision.
Pros:
- Corrects presbyopia and reduces or eliminates the need for reading glasses
- Can address multiple vision issues in one procedure
- Prevents future cataract development
Things to Consider:
- Involves lens replacement surgery, similar to cataract surgery
- Slightly longer recovery than LASIK, but most patients resume normal activities within a few days
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
The right choice depends on:
- Your age and lifestyle goals
- Corneal thickness and health
- Lens health and any early cataract signs
- Your desire to be free from readers or progressives
The only way to know for sure is through a comprehensive eye exam and consultation.
Ready to See Your Options Clearly?
At Peninsula Laser Eye Medical Group in Mountain View, CA, we’ll evaluate your eyes and recommend the procedure that will give you the best long-term vision. Whether you’re a candidate for LASIK, PRK, or Clear Lens Removal, our experienced surgeons will guide you every step of the way.
Call (650) 961-2585 or schedule your consultation online today and take the first step toward clear, confident vision.
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