Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is a type of vision correction procedure. As the first of its kind, PRK was invented before LASIK. Although LASIK is performed more often, PRK offers many advantages for certain patients.
Candidates for PRK Surgery
Most often, an ophthalmologist will recommend a patient to take advantage of a PRK procedure if they have thin corneas. This procedure is designed to help patients suffering from vision problems by correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
The PRK Procedure
PRK is similar to a LASIK procedure. In LASIK procedures, Dr. Corning makes a flap in your cornea using a device called WaveLight FS200. During a PRK procedure, Dr. Corning gently removes the outer epithelial layer before the laser treatment. This process will reshape the cornea by allowing the laser to enter and focus on the retina of the eye. Following the PRK procedure, the epithelial layer of the cornea will regenerate. In most cases, patients will receive a prescription for additional drops and medications, which are designed to help them heal and remain comfortable during recovery.
