PRK

What to Expect

Usually, PRK procedures are completed in about 10 minutes. Before getting started, we will completely numb the eye with no-sting eye drops to ensure a painless experience. Next, a device is placed into the eye to stop it from blinking. The PRK technique is just like LASIK and LASEK for the first steps. The primary difference in the PRK technique is that no corneal flap is required. Rather, the thinnest, outermost layer (the epithelium) of the eye is fully taken off and disposed of, which lets us recontour the corneal stroma beneath. This makes PRK the most ideal procedure for those in contact sports, the Military and in Law Enforcement. Afterward, patients need to wear a specialized bandage contact lens to shelter the eye while the epithelial tissue grows back. The epithelium usually regrows in 1 week, meaning the overall recovery period lasts a bit longer compared to other laser refractive surgery techniques.

Follow-Up

Following any laser vision correction surgery we require our patients to come back to Visionary Eye Surgeons or one of our partner sites for one or more follow-ups. The first appointment is often as soon as the following day. These appointments are crucial so that we can keep an eye on a patient's healing process, look for any unanticipated reactions, and help take care of any possible discomfort. Relative to other laser refractive techniques, PRK does have a lengthier recovery process and a bit more discomfort, including photophobia (light sensitivity) and grittiness sensations in the eye. The majority of patients need to use their protective healing contacts for about one week. Nonetheless, when the eyes have completely recovered, the acuity results will be as good as or better compared to other laser vision correction. Typically, patients can return to their jobs and driving within 3-7 days and experience their full vision improvement within 1 month.