PRK can be an appropriate option for many, and one that Dr. Mansouri highly recommends. It involves removal of the surface layer of cells of the cornea, rather than the creation of a flap. Removal is accomplished by the use of the surgical laser. The surface corneal cells grow back within days, but for this reason recovery periods are longer for PRK than for LASIK. Both procedures are performed in under 15 minutes. The fact that no flap is created with PRK eliminates the chance of post-operative complications involving a flap incision. Patients who play contact sports or routinely engage in other vigorous physical activities may choose PRK to avoid the risk of a future flap dislocation. PRK is also the preferred choice for patients who were born with thin corneas or who have had cataract removal or other previous eye surgeries, including radial keratotomy, refractive lens exchange or phakic IOL implantation. Patients who opt for PRK should expect a longer recovery period than with LASIK. Discomfort may be higher during the first few days after the surgery. Patients may also experience temporary haziness of vision, glare or sensitivity to light.