In 1995, with the approval of PRK, the procedure became more widely available in the United States as an off-label use of the excimer laser . In this procedure, the surgeon produces a hinged corneal flap composed of the outermost 20-25 percent of the cornea's thickness. The computer-controlled excimer laser then reshapes the underlying exposed cornea. This minimizes discomfort and promotes rapid recovery. The surgeon then puts the flap back into place.
Most patients achieve good vision the day following surgery.
Furthermore, patients experience less discomfort. Once in place, the inserts cause a slight stretching of the cornea and a subtle flattening of the corneal curvature. The change in curvature varies with the thickness of the inserts. To place the inserts, the surgeon must first create a small incision in the periphery of the cornea. The inserts are then placed.