Carolinas Centers For Sight

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PRK (PhotoRefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is used when the patient's cornea is not thick enough to perform LASIK. The procedure is similar to LASIK in that the same type of excimer laser is used; however, a corneal flap is not created.

PRK uses the laser's energy to reshape the cornea to correct myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), or astigmatism. The surgeon uses the laser to remove the prescribed amount of corneal tissue to make the necessary vision correction. A contact lens is placed on the eye for three or four days to decrease discomfort while the cornea regrows its surface cells.

This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and only a topical anesthetic is used. For most patients, vision is improved within a few days.

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