PRK
What is PRK?
PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) is a procedure that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea using the precision of excimer laser technology. It is considered more conservative than LASIK and has a slower visual recovery but meets the goal of vision without corrective lenses. The procedure is lower risk than LASIK.
The entire procedure takes only a short time, both eyes can be done the same day, and no stitches or patches are necessary.
Is PRK right for me?
If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, PRK might be right for you.
- Are you nearsighted, farsighted, or do you have an astigmatism?
- Do you want to lessen your dependence on reading glasses or contact lenses?
- Are you having trouble with distance vision?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my results last?
Research has shown that PRK is a permanent procedure. In some instances, patients will need to have an enhancement—this is where the surgeon has to repeat the procedure to obtain satisfactory results. Due to the expertise and careful planning of our surgeons and staff, we have an extremely low enhancement rate. An enhancement is unlikely if you have had a stable vision correction for several years prior to surgery.
Is the procedure painful?
No, topical anesesthic eye drops are used during the procedure. Patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. Some patients experience some scratchiness or grittiness for a few hours while others do not experience any discomfort at all. Immediately following the PRK procedure, patients are directed to go home and nap. For any discomfort tha remains after the nap, advil or Tylenol is sufficent for discomfort relief. Unlike LASIK, PRK patients do experience some discomfort typically day 2 and 3 after their operation.
How long before I can return to work/school/other activities?
PRK has a slower visual recovery than LASIK. Patients may require 5 to 7 days before returning to work. Patients may not have legal driving vision for up to seven days following the procedure. We also recommend refraining from strenuous exercise and outdoor sports for 7 days following your surgery. No swimming for two weeks. Specific concerns will be discussed by your doctor.
What’s the difference between PRK vs. LASIK?
Both PRK and LASIK are eye procedures that reshape the cornea with the objective of producing clearer vision.
With LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a corneal flap to begin the procedure. However, with PRK, the surgeon instead removes the cornea’s outer membrane (called the epithelium). In both procedures the second step is performed in the same manner, with an excimer laser reshaping the cornea.
