PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a laser vision correction (opens in new tab) procedure that reshapes the cornea without creating the flap used in LASIK. Instead, the thin outer epithelial layer of the cornea is removed before an excimer laser reshapes the underlying tissue, and the epithelium then grows back during the first several days of healing. PRK can produce visual outcomes comparable to LASIK, although recovery is typically slower.
In Austin, TX, Austin Eye Clinic brings decades of refractive surgery experience to vision correction care. Board-certified ophthalmologist Shannon M. Wong, MD, has performed more than 7,000 laser vision correction procedures, and board-certified ophthalmologist John D. Odette, MD, is an experienced refractive and iLASIK surgeon. Their backgrounds in corneal and refractive surgery help the team carefully evaluate your eyes and determine which laser vision correction option best fits your needs.
PRK: PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) was the first corneal procedure upon which FDA approval was given for the first generation of FDA approved excimer lasers. PRK involves complete removal of the corneal epithelium (surface layer of the cornea) followed by application of the excimer laser to the exposed corneal surface. The epithelium regenerates over a period of 3-5 days. The visual outcomes between LASIK and PRK are virtually equivalent. LASIK is preferred however due to the quicker recovery.
The Advantage of PRK compared with iLASIK is that there is no flap and therefore no flap complications.
The Disadvantages of PRK compared with iLASIK:
Complications associated with making the flap are virtually eliminated thus enhancing patient safety.
Final visual acuities in eyes treated with intralase are more accurate than any LASIK (blade-flap) procedure.
Fewer visual aberrations (halo, glare, starburst) are created in iLASIK. Therefore quality of vision in iLASIK should be clearer than with standard LASIK.
Patients with thin corneas not suitable for standard LASIK can be treated safely with iLASIK due to the ability to create an accurate thin flap via computer-controlled delivery of the laser.
Differences between PRK and LASIK
PRK
LASIK
Range of correction
Low to Moderately high
Low to Moderately high
Wound Depth
Superficial (remove epithelium)
20% depth (flap preserves epithelium)
Intraoperative Pain
None
None
Postoperative Pain
Moderate 24-48 hrs.
3 to 6 hrs.
Postoperative Medications
3 weeks to several months
1 to 2 weeks
Functional Vision Recovery
3 to 7 days
24 hours
Visual Results Fully Recognized
3 weeks to several months
1 to 6 weeks
Return to Work
2 to 3 days
1 to 2 days
Risk of Complications
Low
Low
Risk of Scarring
1 to 2%
<1%
Dry Eye Sensitive
1 to 4 weeks
Could last up to 12 months or more
Candidates with Thin Corneas or Wide Pupils
Often good candidates
Candidacy depends on amount of correction needed
Vision Problems PRK Can Correct
PRK can correct common refractive errors that happen when the shape of the cornea prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. It may treat nearsightedness, or myopia, which makes distant objects appear blurry, as well as farsightedness, or hyperopia, which can make close vision more difficult. PRK can also correct astigmatism caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.
Good Candidates for PRK
Good PRK candidates are generally adults with a stable glasses or contact lens prescription and healthy eyes. Your corneas must be suitable for laser vision correction, and conditions that interfere with healing or affect the cornea may affect your eligibility.
Because PRK doesn’t require a corneal flap, it can sometimes be considered for people whose corneas aren’t ideal for LASIK or whose work, sports, or activities increase the risk of eye trauma. You should also have realistic expectations about recovery and results.
A comprehensive eye examination at Austin Eye Clinic can determine whether PRK is appropriate for your eyes.
Why Choose Austin Eye Clinic for PRK in Austin, TX?
Austin Eye Clinic combines a long history of vision correction care with a team of board-certified ophthalmologists. Shannon M. Wong, MD, and John D. Odette, MD, both completed ophthalmology residencies as chief residents, and the practice has remained closely involved in refractive surgery as technology has evolved. The practice was the first in Austin to perform LASIK in 1995 and the first to perform all-laser iLASIK in Austin in 2002. With Northwest and Westlake offices in Austin, you have two convenient locations for evaluation, treatment, and follow-up care.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To learn more about PRK or find out whether you’re a good candidate, contact Austin Eye Clinic today. Call (512) 250-2020 to schedule a consultation at our Northwest or West Lake office.
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