Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

What is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)?

PRK stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy. PRK is very similar to LASIK and both of these eye surgery techniques are referred to as refractive surgery.

PRK was the first laser refractive surgery approved by the FDA receiving final approval in 1995. PRK is a refractive procedure that utilizes an extremely precise laser, the Excimer laser, to reshape the outer surface of cornea in order to improve nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This is done by removing microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea. The amount of tissue removed depends on the severity of the prescription. While exactly the same laser is used to correct the shape of the cornea in PRK and LASIK, PRK differs from LASIK in that no flap of tissue is created prior to resculpting the cornea with the Excimer laser.

In LASIK, this flap creation does enable a faster initial visual recovery but is also the cause of most post-LASIK complications. Photorefractive Keratectomy is most commonly used when a patient wants laser vision correction but demonstrates certain characteristics that might make creation of the flap during LASIK risky.

LASIK and PRK are both excellent and effective types of refractive surgery. In order to find out which procedure is right for your eyes, make an appointment with one of our refractive surgery specialists.

There are many options for correcting vision at Rosin Eye Care. We are committed to the very latest in refractive surgery technology, but also dedicated to helping our patients with any eye care need, even glasses.