What is PRK
Designed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, PRK is recommended if your cornea is too thin for the LASIK procedure or if you have significant dry eye. This procedure utilizes the WaveLight EX500 Excimer Laser System, just like LASIK. However, the treatment does not include creating a corneal flap. Epithelial healing results in a longer visual recovery, more mild discomfort and several months of post-operative eye drops. The results at six months are comparable to those of LASIK treatments.
PRK Advantages
- A safe and gentle procedure
- Minimal removal of your body’s natural tissue
- A strong cornea during and after the healing process
- Excellent vision post procedure
- Safety for contact sports and the military
- Increased rate of candidacy for those with thin corneas
Recovery Time
PRK is a safe and effective treatment with a slightly longer recovery time than LASIK, lasting around 48 to 72 hours after surgery on average. In contrast, the average LASIK recovery time is about 24 hours. PRK recovery period is slightly longer due to the need for the epithelial cells to regenerate over the surface of the eye. Although the procedure is different from LASIK, the outcome is the same – improved vision without glasses or contacts.