PRK

PRK the LASIK alternative.

What is PRK?

PRK (sometimes called LASEK) is similar to LASIK, it differs only in the method to prepare the eye before laser correction. With PRK, rather than creating a microscopic flap, the surface of the eye is prepared with an alcohol-based fluid and then the laser treatment is applied. Laser treatment with PRK is exactly the same as LASIK giving you great vision with Wavefront Guided CustomVue technology. A bandage contact lens is placed over the eye after the procedure to promote healing and provide protection. This contact lens is removed around a week after the procedure after the eye has healed.

Understanding how the eye sees images

When we look at an image light passes through the outer most portion of the eye (cornea), through the lens, and focuses on the back of the eye (retina). Imperfections in vision can be caused by any part of this journey. Laser vision correction works to gently reshape the cornea treating the most common imperfections in vision: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and even astigmatism.

Step-By-Step

What to expect during PRK treatment?

PRK is a flap-less alternative to LASIK. Treatment is completed in 3 short steps.

PRK treatment surface preparation
STEP 1

Eye Preparation

A diluted alcohol solution is applied to the surface of the eye to prepare for treatment.

PRK treatment with excimer laser
STEP 2

Treatment

An excimer laser gently reshapes the surface of the eye in around 60 seconds.

PRK treatment completed, correcting vision
STEP 3

Vision Corrected

After treatment a contact lens is placed over the eye to promote healing. With PRK, patients vision gradually improves over the course of around a week.

See for yourself

How PRK works.

Check out our short animated video of a PRK treatment. In the time it takes to watch the video, your vision could be corrected with PRK.

Why Chose PRK?

No-Flap Procedure

Quick and Proven

Painless

Freedom From Lenses

What makes PRK different from LASIK?

PRK LASIK
Corrects
Nearsightedness
Farsightedness
Astigmatism
Treatment
Lasers Used 1 2
Flap Required
Patients With Thin Corneas
Recovery
Vision ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Recovery Time ★★★☆☆ ★★★★☆
Resume All Activities ★★☆☆☆ ★★★☆☆

Patients often ask if LASIK is better than PRK and how they are different. Both LASIK and PRK deliver excellent outcomes and are proven procedures, however for some patients PRK is a safer alternative.

Thin corneas: Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve a flap, making it (along with SMILE) a treatment option for patients with thin corneas.

High dry-eye score: Patients at risk for dry eyes benefit from PRK as the risk of dryness after treatment is lower (How we screen for Dry Eye).

Career: Certain professions prefer or require PRK treatment such as combat-bound soldiers and others in special operations.

Lifestyle: Those with a high chance of trauma to the eye, such as athletes, benefit from PRK as the risk to vision is lower if the eye experiences trauma from a foreign object.

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for PRK?

You’ve already taken the first, most important step by educating yourself about PRK and laser vision correction. Now, schedule your complimentary consultation to find out if you are a great candidate for PRK.

Real Patients. Real Reviews.

What are patients saying about PRK LASEK?

Next Steps
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