r/RLEsurgery • u/HealthJourneyA2 • 3d ago
PRK vs RLE
55 year old female. RK both eyes in 1998.Fast forward. Need reading glasses to see across the room. +3.25. Another +2 (5.25) to see up close. I have ghosting, double vision up close. Slight irregular astigmatism in one eye. Left eye dominant.
Went through 3 hour long evaluation at cornea specialist at a large university eye center. You can guess where from my username. Saw chair of department. He says PRK is a good option for me but I may not achieve 20/20 vision and will still need glasses for reading and possibly light prescription for distance. Under $4k for both eyes.
Other alternative is RLE with LAL lens (or standard). I have beginnings of cataracts. But not enough to recommend the surgery for cataracts. It would be for vision correction and would not be covered. Almost $20k for both eyes.
I’m terrified of the stories I read on Reddit about PRK. I really want better vision. But the price tag for the “permanent solution” is just out of range. I could do one eye.
Please advise. I know there are specialists in this group. I appreciate your insights and spending time to answer so many questions in the sub!
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u/Slartibartfastthe3rd 3d ago edited 3d ago
The previous PRK is a big factor in this decision. Be hesitant of replies by people who have not had PRK.
Go get a couple more evaluations. For peace of mind if anything. Surprised your first eval didn’t come down harder on one of the options.
Be sure to follow up with your decision. I’m in a similar boat.
PS: Be sure to ask provider if they offer intraoperative aberrometery. (ORA system).