LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, has become one of the most popular and successful new procedures to be developed in years. In the procedure, a small flap is cut into the eye, a laser is used to remodel the tissue underneath, and the flap is put back to heal. (The last part happens incredibly quickly: corneal tissue regenerates faster than almost anything else in the body.) The result? 20/20 vision—or, often, even clearer vision as high as 20/10. No more glasses, and no more contact lenses.

Then there’s LASEK, with an “E”, or Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy, not to be confused with its more popular counterpart. What’s the difference? In LASEK, the flap is cut less deeply into the eye than LASIK. In a 2006 study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology, the two procedures were both found to be “safe, effective, and predictable.” This would suggest that the less invasive procedure — LASEK — would be preferable. As it happens, the opposite might be true: LASEK, though less invasive, is actually more painful, and it takes longer to recover after the procedure. Then again, the study found that the results of LASEK were slightly better (though slight enough that most patients couldn’t tell the difference).

Considering the operation? This chart can help you choose between the two options. (Though your doctor can help you more.)

Has anybody tried LASEK? What’s the verdict? Comment below…

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