PRK Overview

When it comes to laser eye surgery, LASIK is the most recognizable procedure. But it�s not the only laser-assisted eye surgery that can restore a patient�s vision. A totally different method known as photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is also a popular and widely used procedure.

How PRK is Performed

PRK refractive surgery involves the use of an excimer laser to shave off thin layers of the patient�s corneal lens. This lens is responsible for 80% of the eye�s focusing ability. When it is misshapen, patients find themselves suffering from vision impairment. After the lens has been reshaped through PRK, the patient is better able to focus on objects up close and at a distance.

Conditions Treated with PRK

PRK is used to treat a number of vision problems. Its predecessor, radial keratectomy (RK) was developed to treat nearsighted patients. Unfortunately, it was only effective for relatively mild cases. When doctors started using PRK, they found the new treatment to be effective for patients with moderate to severe myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

PRK Results

Patients who undergo PRK surgery enjoy a high rate of success. Statistics show that 65 to 70% of PRK procedures result in 20/20 uncorrected vision. 95% of PRK patients achieve uncorrected vision of 20/40 or better. There is a very low rate of negative side effects associated with this surgery.

Possible Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects of PRK are discomfort, sensitivity to light, and unusual lighting effects such as visible halos around light sources. These symptoms typically fade over time. Serious complications are extremely rare, and may include infection, delayed healing, scarring, or improper visual correction. Further surgery can help patients whose vision is over- or under-corrected during PRK.

Many ophthalmologists consider PRK to be the procedure of choice because of its high success rate, minimally invasive nature, and low number of complications. Speak with your eye surgeon to find out if PRK is right for you.