PRK or PhotoRefractive Keratotomy was the first excimer laser refractive procedure developed and has been continuously practiced with excellent results since 1995. While it was extremely popular at the time of its development, it has been largely outpaced by LASIK as the refractive surgery of choice because of the rapid visual rehabilitation and increased comfort levels afforded by the LASIK procedure.

PRK is similar to LASIK except that the excimer laser beams are delivered directly to the surface of the eye rather than under a flap. For this reason there is a period of discomfort until the epithelial (skin) surface of the eye regenerates. This is usually from 3 to 5 days. Best vision is also not experienced for 1 to 4 weeks, or longer after PRK. In the long run, visual outcome is usually just as good as for patients having LASIK. PRK remains the treatment of choice for patients who have thin corneas, extremely dry eyes, or for military personnel and certain athletes who may be at risk for flap dislocations. PRK treatments have also been approved for Custom or wavefront software and thus are equally capable of treating individuals with the latest in vision correcting technology.

All procedures have risks and some of the risks of PRK include corneal haze, which may take up to a year to disappear, infection, which can be vision threatening if not properly treated, over- and under-correction, which may require further enhancement with the Laser.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation to go over this procedure.

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