Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) WHAT IS PRK? Many people seeking to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses may not be candidates for LASIK surgery, including those with chronic dry eye and thin corneas. If you’ve been told LASIK is not for you, consider PRK. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a laser eye surgery that treats refractive vision errors by correcting the shape of the cornea. FDA-approved since 1995, PRK was the original laser refractive eye surgery, in use years before LASIK. Unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t involve creating a flap in the cornea, so it may be a better choice for people whose lives include rigorous athletic or physical demands, or an increased risk of eye injury. PRK is also an option for cataract patients with certain intraocular lens implants whose vision requires additional refinement. PRK optimizes the shape of the cornea, improving light refraction and correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism so effectively that 97% of people achieve 20/20 visual acuity or better within a year following surgery, mirroring the effectiveness of LASIK. Healing from PRK surgery takes longer than LASIK, and vision may fluctuate during the first few weeks, but will stabilize enough to provide dramatic improvement that will get even better over time. WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR PRK? PRK may be an option for people who: •Are least 18 years old, but preferably 21+ •Have healthy corneas and goodoverall eye health •Have a refractive error that can be improved with PRK •Have had no change in vision during the previous year Certain eye and general health conditions, including corneal diseases or abrasions, advanced glaucoma, uncontrolled diabetes and other problems may prevent candidacy for PRK. HOW IS PRK PERFORMED? Your Lake Eye doctor will first provide a comprehensive eye exam to determine eligibility, including measuring your refractive error, cornea and pupil size. If you’re a candidate and opt for PRK surgery, the process is safe and quick. First, your eyes will be treated with numbing drops. Your surgeon will then place a speculum over your eye to prevent blinking. You will feel slight pressure but the process itself is painless. While your eyes are completely numb, your surgeon will gently remove the topmost layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Next you will be asked to focus on a target light while your surgeon uses a highly sophisticated computer-controlled excimer laser to correct the shape of the cornea so that it utilizes light more effectively. This outpatient procedure typically takes about 10 minutes per eye. An alternative for those who don’t qualify for LASIK Download Brochure Ready to limit your dependence on glasses? Call us or talk to your Lake Eye doctor and find out if PRK is right for you. ABOUT THE PRACTICE SERVICES PRECISION OPTICS RESOURCE & PATIENT INFO LOCATIONS (352) 775-1539 © 2016 Lake Eye Associates. All right reserved. THE VILLAGES: 1400 US Hwy 441 N, Ste. 521, The Villages, FL 32159 LADY LAKE: 801 CR 466, Suite 102, Sunset Plaza, Lady Lake, FL 32159 TAVARES: 1852 Mayo Drive, Tavares, FL 32778 LEESBURG: 601 E. Dixie Avenue, Medical Plaza 201, Leesburg, FL 34748 WILDWOOD: 5431 SR 44, Suite 1, Sumter Summit, Wildwood, FL 34785 Privacy Policy and LEP Notice | Accessibility | COVID Safety