PRK

PRK was the first procedure performed using the Excimer laser. It corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. The difference between LASIK and PRK is that with LASIK a corneal flap is created and the laser is applied to the inner tissue of the cornea. With PRK, the epithelium (or outer skin of the cornea) is removed and a laser is applied to the surface of the cornea. PRK can be used to correct low to high levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

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PRK is for those who:

What to expect on surgery day:

You will arrive at the laser center about an hour prior to your procedure. Once you have been checked in you may be offered a sedative to help you relax. You will then be prepared for surgery. The area around your eyes will be cleaned and a sterile drape may be applied around your eye. Anesthetic eye drops will be used to numb your eyes; no injections or needles will be used. When your eye is completely numb, an eyelid holder will be placed between your eyelids to keep you from blinking during the procedure.

Next, your doctor will remove the epithelium, a thin layer of protective skin that covers the cornea. You will be asked to look directly at a target light while the laser reshapes your cornea. The laser will be programmed with the information gathered in your pre-operative exam. The laser treatment will be completed in less than a minute or two, depending on the amount of correction needed.

Following your procedure, your eye(s) will be examined with a slit lamp microscope. Your eyes may be shielded for protection. Your vision may be blurry or hazy for one to five days. You will experience some discomfort as the epithelium heals and covers the treated area. Eye drops, pain medication and possibly a protective contact lens can be used to minimize this discomfort. Most patients resume normal activities within one to three days. Vision can fluctuate for up to six months.

Realistic expectations:

The decision to have PRK is an important one that only you can make. The goal of any refractive surgical procedure is to reduce your dependence on corrective lenses. However, we cannot guarantee you will have the results you desire. The vast majority of our patients are extremely happy with their vision after PRK and can do most activities without dependence on corrective lenses.

PRK is a safe, effective and permanent procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks. After PRK, almost everyone experiences some visual side effects.These visual side effects are usually mild and temporary and have a tendency to diminish over time. But there is a slight chance that some of these side effects won't go away completely, including light sensitivity, glare and halos. Serious complications to PRK are extremely rare.

Since everyone heals somewhat differently, some patients may over react to the procedure and some may under react resulting in overcorrections and undercorrections. Once the eye has stablized (3 to 6 months) you and your doctor can discuss whether a re-treatment could help fine tune your vision if you are over or under corrected. After a thorough eye exam, you and your doctor will determine if PRK is an option for you. If you are a good candidate, you will be given additional information about the procedure that will allow you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed.Be sure you have all your questions answered to your satisfaction.

Alternatives to PRK

PRK is not the only surgical procedure designed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. To learn about other procedures go to the surgical and laser vision correction procedures section of our Web Site or you can make an appointment, attend a seminar or request additional information.

We offer a number of finance options and affordable payment plans. It is easy to apply online and receive credit approval before you schedule an appointment.