In PRK, Photorefractive Keratectomy, the Excimer Laser is also utilized for reshaping the cornea, but prior to the procedure some of the surface cells of the cornea, called the corneal epithelium, are removed. Some patients, due to individual variations in the eye's anatomy, may be better candidates for the PRK eye surgery procedure. These patients typically have a longer recovery time and may need pain medication for a few days.