LASIK and PRK are both laser vision correction procedures that reshape the cornea — but they differ in how the procedure is performed.
In LASIK, a thin corneal flap is created, lifted, the underlying cornea is reshaped, and the flap is replaced. Recovery is generally quick — many patients see clearly within hours.
In PRK (and the modern TransPRK), no flap is created. The surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed and the cornea is reshaped directly. Recovery takes longer (4-7 days for clear vision), but because no flap is created, corneal structure is better preserved.
PRK / TransPRK is often considered for patients with thin corneas, contact sport athletes, and defence aspirants, where avoiding a flap may be preferable.