PRK

Photorefractive Keratectomy, also known as PRK, is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct refractive vision problems such as near-sightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

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"PRK is one of the oldest surgeries and an advanced laser procedure that uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea."

What is PRK?

PRK is one of the oldest surgeries and an advanced laser procedure that uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea.

The procedure begins with the removal of the thin outer layer of the cornea (known as the epithelium). This is then allowed to regenerate naturally over several days after the surgery.

Key differences from LASIK

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve cutting a flap in the cornea, making it preferable for people with thin corneas or those who are more prone to dry eyes.

Healing and visual recovery with PRK generally take longer than LASIK, with most discomfort occurring in the first few days after surgery as the surface layer regrows.

Why Choose This?

Benefits of PRK surgery

Experience the advantages of this established vision correction procedure.

Highly Effective

Highly effective for vision correction in eligible patients.

No Corneal Flap

Suitable for individuals with thin corneas or lifestyles that risk trauma to the eye, as there is no corneal flap created.

Safety

The risk of certain complications related to flap creation (as in LASIK) is eliminated with PRK.

Proven Track Record

PRK has been safely performed for decades and remains a common alternative for those who are not optimal candidates for LASIK.

How does PRK work?

The patients walk in and go through several tests to determine what surgery they are suitable for.
PRK is performed under topical anaesthesia (numbing eye drops) and takes about 5 to 15 minutes per eye.
The surgeon removes the corneal epithelium using a special tool, an alcohol solution, or the laser itself.
A computer-guided excimer laser is applied to precisely reshape the underlying corneal tissue, correcting the patient's specific vision error.
A bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to protect it while the epithelium heals and regenerates.

Key candidate criteria

Age Must be at least 18 years old with a fully developed eye structure.
Stable Prescription Should have a stable prescription for at least one year, with minimal change in refractive error.
Corneal Thickness Suitable for people with thin corneas, who may not qualify for LASIK.
General Eye Health Must be free from active eye infections, injuries and diseases such as Keratoconus, Glaucoma, or Cataracts.
Overall Health Overall health should be good to proceed with PRK surgery.
Pregnancy or Nursing Pregnant and Nursing individuals are advised to postpone PRK due to hormone–related changes in vision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the PRK procedure take?

PRK surgery typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes to complete, with one eye treated at a time. The actual laser treatment takes only a few seconds per eye.

Can both eyes be treated on the same day?

Yes! When having PRK for both eyes, it can be done on one surgery day. This is beneficial because it's more convenient, with only one recovery period and one drop schedule to follow.

When can I return to work after PRK?

You should be healed enough to go back to work after weeks 1 to 4. Most patients can return to work within 3-7 days, though this depends on your job requirements and individual healing.

Will I experience dry eyes after PRK?

Your eye may feel dry for 1 to 3 months after surgery. However, PRK generally causes less dry eye than LASIK because no corneal flap is created.

How long do PRK results last?

The corneal reshaping from PRK is permanent. However, natural age-related changes to the eye's lens may affect vision over time, particularly presbyopia (age-related near vision loss) after age 40.

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