Fortunately, we live in the world of technology where new advances are constantly being made. In the realm of Refractive surgery, many options are available depending on your needs. Lets dummy this down!
Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis, LASIK, is a type of refractive surgery preformed by an opthalmologist to correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and/or astigmatism.
A Femtosecond laser was developed with the intent of being used as alternative to the laser being used for LASIK surgery. The results from it was a little less than desirable. With further testing, researchers found the Femtosecond laser was better used in the creation a corneal flap. In years prior, a microkeratome, which essentially is a blade, was used to create the flap.
Photorefractive keratectomy, PRK, in a nutshell is LASIK without the flap.
After gathering data, your eyecare provider can guide you to select which type of procedure will give you the optimal result.