While laser vision correction is often used as a general term, Spanish clinics offer several different procedures tailored to the specific anatomical needs of the patient. The two most common are LASIK and PRK, both of which use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea but differ in how they access the tissue. In a standard procedure, a flap is created and then replaced, whereas in PRK, the thin outer layer of the eye—the epithelium—is gently removed and allowed to grow back naturally over several days.

The choice between these procedures is based on the patient's corneal thickness, lifestyle, and vocational needs. PRK is often recommended by Spanish specialists for individuals with thinner corneas or those involved in high-impact sports where a corneal flap might be at risk of displacement. According to the Spain LASIK Eye Surgery Sector, while PRK has a slightly longer initial recovery period, the long-term visual results and structural integrity are identical to other laser methods, making it a vital option for many patients.

Spanish medical teams spend considerable time educating patients on what to expect during the healing process for each procedure. For PRK patients, this includes the use of a "bandage" contact lens for the first few days to protect the surface as the epithelium regenerates. This detailed level of care ensures that every individual receives the safest and most appropriate intervention for their biological profile, reinforcing the reputation of Spanish ophthalmology for personalized and evidence-based medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is one procedure better than the other? A. Neither is "better"; the choice depends on your specific eye structure and lifestyle, with both providing excellent long-term vision.

Q. Why does PRK take longer to heal? A. Because the outer layer of the eye must completely regrow, whereas in other procedures, the flap acts as an immediate natural bandage.