Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

An alternative to LASIK, photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, utilizes a laser to create a flatter shape for patients with myopia (nearsightedness), or a more curved surface for those with hyperopia (farsightedness). PRK procedures can also be used to correct astigmatism.

Unlike LASIK, PRK surgeries do not create a flap; instead, the outermost skin of the cornea, or epithelium, is removed using a laser, or manually after being softened with diluted alcohol. A computer determines the depth, pattern and amount of tissue to be removed, then gently delivers pulses of cool, concentrated ultraviolet light to reshape the corneal curve. After the procedure, special contact lenses are applied to protect the eye while the epithelium grows back over three to five days.