PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY (PRK) was the first procedure using the excimer laser to change the curvature of the cornea to improve vision.
Prior to the laser treatment the superficial layer of epithelial surface cells are removed. These typically regenerate over the next 4-7 days post-operatively. A bandage soft contact lens is placed on the eye until this epithelium has healed in. Like LASIK , PRK only takes about fifteen minutes to perform, and the surgery itself is painless.
There is typically more discomfort during the healing process for PRK, and it takes a bit more time for the patient to see clearly, but the eventual outcome for LASIK and PRK are identical in low to moderate refractive states. However, with higher levels of myopia, there is an increased risk of corneal haze with PRK. There are some medical conditions that make PRK more suitable and the PRK procedure can actually cure those conditions. PRK patients are placed on an antibiotic drop for about 1 week and an anti-inflammatory drop for 2-3 months. |
