PRK

PRK is an abbreviation for Photorefractive Keratectomy. PRK is a vision correction procedure which uses a laser to reshape the cornea. PRK takes just a few minutes and is done under topical anesthesia.

  • Patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK.
  • Athletes who may have a possibility for eye trauma.
  • Patients who may have a physically active lifestyle.
  • Patients with certain corneal diseases.
  • Patients with a certain degree of dry eyes.
  • Patients concerned about a corneal flap.
  • Patients with large pupils.
  • Patients with thin corneas.
  • Patients who had previous eye surgery, such as RK, LASEK or LASIK

LASIK, LASEK and PRK treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but if you have have larger pupils or thin corneas, PRK may be the best procedure for you.

Generally, patients under the age of 40 still read well without the use of glasses following the surgery. Patients over the age of 40 may need reading glasses for small print. Presbyopia is a term that refers to the natural weakening of the muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need reading glasses. LASIK does not correct or prevent presbyopia. Should you fall into this age category, we will be happy to discuss monovision with you at your consultation. This is an option that allows many patients the convenience of near and distance vision without the use of reading glasses.

Once your vision allows, you can resume all activities. You should however, avoid intense or direct strong sunlight and dirty or dusty environments for as long as possible after treatment.

We will require that you have someone drive you home following your procedure. However, you may drive when you feel comfortable enough to drive safely, we recommend waiting for five days before driving.

No. We do ask that they wear an eye shield at bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so they do not inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks, with glasses being prescribed between the 3rd and 6th week visit.

You may need glasses or other corrective lenses after the procedure on a temporary or permanent basis.

Research has shown that PRK can be successfully performed after a corneal transplant or previous radial keratotomy (RK) refractive surgery. However, the decision depends on many factors. See us for a pre-operative consultation and exam to see if you are a good candidate.